"God Responds To Repentance" by Kirk Hunt

But it displeased Jonah exceedingly, and he was very angry. And he prayed unto the LORD, and said, I pray thee, O LORD, was not this my saying, when I was yet in my country? Therefore I fled before unto Tarshish: for I knew that thou art a gracious God, and merciful, slow to anger, and of great kindness, and repentest thee of the evil.

Jonah 4:1-2 KJV

Jonah reacted with rage when the city of Nineveh repented. Despite his own disobedience, Jonah found it easy to condemn others. Ignoring his own faults and judgmental nature, the prophet choose to resent sincere and true repentance.

Has it ever happened in your world? Has someone you thought unworthy been redeemed by God? Did you find yourself resenting God's mercy and grace towards others?

The notorious capital of Assyria was not known for its purity or goodness. The short lived city and nation were obliterated, per Biblical prophecy, in 612 BC. Still, for a time, the city experienced revival and restoration through Jonah's crusade.

Christians are called to obedience in reaching the lost with the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Christians are also called to graciously accept those who are restored by God's mercy. Anything else is not a true reflection of God's love.

The book of Jonah is an object lesson in forgiveness and restoration. Those who repent to God receive God's forgiveness. It's just that easy. It's just that fast.

Think: I must accept whoever God forgives.

Pray: “Lord, help me respond with joy when you restore others.”

Copyright © September 2008, Kirk Hunt