Word for Wednesday
And the word of the Lord came unto Jonah the second time, saying; Jonah 3:1
I read one time of a man who had lived a very uncomplicated life, who generally took good care of his health, and who somehow managed to arrive at the stately age of 100 in fairly good shape. Taking stock of his circumstances, this man realised he had achieved what few others do but would love to do. He decided to share his story and possibly be an inspiration to others. So he bought a travel home and went from place to place, speaking with groups as diverse as school classes and seniors’ clubs. He had a fascinating, rewarding, and useful time of it for several years. In effect, he had a second chance at life, and he took it. For all who are willing to do so, God offers us a second chance if we have messed up the first.
Jonah might well have considered himself a great failure. After all, he had totally disobeyed God and had suffered greatly for it. Maybe God wouldn’t trust him anymore, and for good reason. God could surely find someone who was more willing and obedient than himself. We might well feel the same way if we have been disobedient and have had to be chastised by God. But sometimes, God is able to bring out of our disobedience something valuable for Himself. For one thing, we have a better understanding of our own weaknesses and should be more willing to rest on the Lord for strength and direction. For another, we should be more understanding of the weaknesses of others and will be more sympathetic when they encounter the same stumbles that we did.
If a runaway like Jonah got a wonderful second chance, don’t you think God will be willing to pick you up, dust you off, wind you up, and set you back on the track of His divine purpose for your life? Not only is He able to do so, He is also anxious to do so. We are assured by Jonah’s example that God will resume His dealings with us and make use of us.
Remember, if God speaks to you again, your only appropriate response is ‘Yes Lord!’ Especially if you said ‘No’ the first time. -Jim MacIntosh