Read Jonah: Chapter 3
In chapter 1, Jonah ran from a direct command from God and ended up in the belly of a huge fish. In chapter 2, Jonah cries out in his distress and God commands the fish to vomit Jonah on dry land. Now in chapter 3, God again commands Jonah to go to the great city of Nineveh and proclaim God’s message there. Jonah obeys this time and goes to Nineveh and gives the residents there God’s message.
What I find myself wondering is: what is Jonah’s motivation for obeying God this time around?
Is he wholeheartedly and gratefully obeying God’s command?
Is he reluctantly stepping out in obedience because he knows he doesn’t have a choice?
Is he obeying, but still holding onto a rebellious heart and a grumbling spirit?
Motivation matters. For me, I usually obey reluctantly and fearfully. I don’t think I have ever obeyed with a rebellious spirit, but I know that I usually don’t obey wholeheartedly and gratefully. I will admit to arguing with God and making excuses as to why He shouldn’t use me. Moses and Gideon were reluctant servants. Although, God does bless the reluctant servant, I believe that He would prefer us to serve like Jesus, who served from a humble heart. Jesus was on this earth to fulfill His Father’s will (Luke 22:42). Jesus never complained about His God-given assignments. He never argued with God. He did what was expected of Him from a posture of submission and love.
My Challenge To You: I want you to reflect on your own motivation to obey God. Use a journal and ask yourself the following questions:
1. Are you obeying a command from God reluctantly because you know you don’t have a choice?
2. Are you obeying, but still holding onto a rebellious heart and a grumbling spirit?
3. Do you argue with God and make excuses, trying to convince God that He needs to choose someone else?
4. Are you obeying wholeheartedly and with a humble heart like Jesus?
5. Are you obeying because you know that God’s will is above your own and that is the only thing that matters?
6. Are you obeying out of love for God and others?
Be honest with yourself. Your answers will reveal where some heart work needs to be done. I have heart work to do myself. It is a part of the process of sanctification and transforming ourselves into the likeness of Christ. It is a lifelong journey. Don’t get discouraged. God sent the Holy Spirit to guide us and encourage us in the journey, so never give up. Keep moving forward and remember that God works all things for the good for those who love Him and are called according to His purpose (Romans 8:28).
Patti Burris 