It wasn’t till “the word of the LORD came unto Jonah the second time” (Jonah 3:1) that Jonah obeyed. We need to beware of the sneaky mentality that determines the importance of a command according to the number of times God put it in the Scriptures. God does not speak His will just for the anyhow! Whether He gives a command one time or fourteen times, God means for us to obey.
Jonah’s Message and God’s Mercy
I don’t know if the devil’s deception is getting “better,” or if he’s just receiving a freer hand as the end of the age draws nigh, or if God’s people are just getting more gullible and careless. Maybe it’s all three or maybe it’s something else. Whatever the case, I see more and more deception, and more and more deceived.
On the Narrow Way
“He maketh me to lie down in green pastures” (Psalm 23:2). The sheep have walked a long way to reach the green pastures. They are so tired, but also so hungry. They want to get busy with the business of eating. But the shepherd knows it is better for them to rest first. Our Shepherd knows when we must slow down, lie down, and rest. If we don’t do so on our own, He brings those circumstances which force us to rest.
Christ, the Good Shepherd
Sometimes I am like the bottle. The lives of others — their actions, words, thoughts, choices, values — reach out from a distance, exerting their influence on me, helping me move in some specific direction. These people do not control me, but they influence me. In fact, some of them I have never met; nevertheless, the waves and ripplets of their lives stir my boat.
Personal Accountability to God
“All things work together for good” (Romans 8:28). In times of anguish, stress and trouble, this promise has kept many Christians confident and on an even keel. I have often trusted it in dark times. However, I really cannot claim this promise if my love for God does not translate into living “according to His purpose” for me.
God Chooses a Family