Read Jonah 4 Gods lesson on compassion for Jonah

So he prayed to the LORD and said, Ah, LORD, was not this what I said when I was still in my country? Therefore, I fled previously to Tarshish; for I know that you are gracious and merciful God, slow to anger and abundant in lovingkindness. One who relents from doing harm. (Jonah 4:2)

When Jonah knew God relented His pan of judgement, he was upset. God shown compassion for Nineveh because of their repentance. His heart of contempt towards the Ninevites surface. His anger was directed to God.

He justifies his flight to Tarshish. He had anticipated the consequence of going to the Ninevites; they would repent of their sins, and God would forgive them. This was contrary to his conviction and desire the destruction of Gods enemies.

This is the sovereign act of God's mercy. Getting His people to save His enemies. God just do what Jonah knew God would do. Jonah was probably a patriot to Israel and would wish to see the downfall of the nation's enemy. Yet God was gracious to those who were Israel's enemies. For this is Gods glory, as when God showed to Moses, And he said, Please, show me Your glory. Then He said, I will make all My goodness pass before you, and I will proclaim the name of the LORD before you. I will be gracious to whom I will be gracious, and I will have compassion on whom I will have compassion. (Exodus

Jonah felt depressed because of what God has done. He was very much like the elder brother in the parable of the prodigal son (Luke 15). Both are selfish and self-righteous. Both have a vengeful spirit. Both become petulant when God shows mercy to the undeserving person. Both seem quite unaware of their own disobedience and their personal need for mercy. Neither one experiences any joy at the repentance of the sinner.

The scope of God's mercy is extended to the gentiles even though He had chosen Israel. Regardless of nations and wickedness; God still forgives. A call to all of us to have a God-like compassion who loves all regardless of their background. He is not willing that any should perish.

Prayer: Lord You are compassionate, slow to anger and abounding in mercy. Without which I will not be what I am today as one who is been forgiven and live to experience Your grace daily till eternity. With that love I experienced grant that I take Your bidding to pray, reach out, witness and show love to those whom You have directed me. They too may repent and experience Your forgiveness.

Previous Day
Next Day