Read: Jonah 4:1-4, Romans 9:6-18

God has mercy on whom he wants to have mercy. (Rom. 9:18 NIV)

All my fears have come true. It’s clear now God isn’t going to punish Nineveh. How could he not keep his word? I know I got the message right: “Forty days. Then . . . Boom!” Well, I don’t think it’s going to happen. They’re “repenting,” or so they say, and God is going to spare them. Why? Because of his compassion and love. I knew all along this was a possibility. I didn’t want to believe it, but I also didn’t want any part of it—not for Nineveh. So I ran.

I knew I shouldn’t have come here! Not even after the fish. I’ll sit and watch, but I know it’s a waste of time. This isn’t right! If they live, there’s no fairness. Those people have blood on their hands; Hebrew blood! They were scared when I gave the message. I saw it in their eyes. Good! But, if they now escape, they will eventually go back to their evil ways. This “mercy” will only encourage them to think they can get away with it again. How could God forgive them? On what basis? I’m so angry—at Nineveh, at myself—and at you, God. So angry, I’d rather be dead than endure this injustice. God, I mean that now.

Prayer:

Lord, if I am blind in any way to your truth, open my eyes; if my emotions and attitudes are keeping me in any way from living out your grace and love, please change me. Amen.

Author: Doug VanBronkhorst

https://woh.org/