Book of Jonahনমুনা

DOES THE LORD DISAPPOINT US?

And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose. (Romans 8:28)

Jonah had already delivered a message of repentance to the Ninevites, and they listened to him. Even the king of Nineveh commanded all the people to fast, humble themselves, and repent. Doesn't this mean that Jonah's missionary ministry was successful? However, in this chapter, we read that Jonah was disappointed because he wanted the city of Nineveh to be overturned by God.

Maybe we have also experienced disappointment when we see those who have cheated on us and we expect them to receive their retribution because of the injustice that happened to us. The same childish nature that shows up in Jonah can just also appear in us.

God taught Jonah that He has power over anything that happens and is able to offer mercy to anyone. Jonah wanted to see destruction because of their actions, but God had mercy on Nineveh because of their repentance.

Thus, if God has compassion for those who betray us, then should we also give thanks to the Lord? Hasn't God also saved us from the darkness?

Jesus came to this world to experience rejection. He was even persecuted and crucified. However, in His suffering on the cross while bearing the sins of men, Jesus forgave those who persecuted Him. He did not bring down the flames of judgment on those who persecuted Him, even though He could have. He was merciful. He forgave and saved them. 

God never disappoints us under any circumstances. He cares about us.