Jonah: God's Relentless GraceSample

Man who is angry 

Jonah was angry because God’s forgiveness toward the people of Nineveh displeased him greatly. Why was that? Why would God’s forgiveness and grace toward this city make Jonah angry enough to want to die? 

Jonah loved his own people. And Jonah hated the people of Nineveh. This was the reason why he ran when God called him to go and preach to Nineveh. He did not want to warn them about the judgment of God. He would rather see Nineveh routed and punished for their crimes against his own people. And God’s grace toward Nineveh revealed his own prejudice. 

When something we really desire, hope and live for no longer exists, how do we react? Does it make us angry and bitter? Does it leave us without meaning and purpose? Do we experience depression and dejection? What are those things that are taking the place of God in your life? 

When we are consumed by such desires, then we fail to see what God is concerned about. They make us blind to the purposes of God and instead of weeping and mourning for what breaks God’s heart, we weep and mourn over our own disappointments and frustrations. 

Do you see what’s making you angry or sad or disappointed or depressed? Would you examine your heart and confess those emotions before God? Don’t let sin rule over you. Would you rather delight in Christ who loves you deeply, satisfies you and delights in you?