I am currently studying the book of Jonah. I found it interesting that in chapter 1 verse 3 it says that Jonah rose to flee to Tarshish from the pressence of the Lord. This is after the Lord told him to go to Nineveh and speak against the cities wickedness. I read further and in verse 9, after the mariners figured out that Jonah was the cause of their turmoil at sea. When asked what did he do to bring such evil upon them, Jonah replied" I am a Hebrew and I fear the Lord, the God of heaven, which hath made the sea and the dry land". 

I was a little confused. At the beginning of the chapter when given instructions from the Lord, Jonah decided that he didnt want to do that. But even more he decided to flee from the Lord. Huh, I dont think it works like that.  I thought Jonah knew he was the God of heaven, creator of all things, and worthy of reverrencial fear. 

I was quickly reminded that Jonah was a human. His decisions on that day were not one of his better moments. Im thankful that God allowed me to see this piece in history. My take away from this text is that I cant be double minded. If I truly fear the Lord. If I beleive He is the God of Heaven. If I beleieve that He made the heavens and earth. Then why would I try to hide from Him or disobey His instructions ? My faith grows when I trust Him and what He is calling me to do. Honestly my opinion does not matter.  

When my kids were little and I was teaching them the importance of obedience, we made up a little song. It was called Obey RIght Away. I would sing it to them whenever I saw them struggling with what I asked them to do. I would explain that half obedience is disobedience and that was not acceptable. God whats our full obedience coupled with our love and devotion. The Lord says in John 14:15, If you love Me then you will keep my commandments.

Today I will remind myself in song: Obey Right Away, oooh ooooh. 🩵