March 14

While I was fainting away, I remembered the Lord. And my prayer came to Thee, into Thy holy temple. Jonah 2:7

We all know the story of Jonah—how he deliberately went in the wrong direction after being told to go to Nineveh. I would not choose to venture down such a path that Jonah took, yet I know that there must be many times that I have not followed the will of God. It is remarkable how God can exercise His patience and grace as He considers the actions of His not-so-loyal servants. We are remarkable in our ability to assume that we know best.

Even more remarkable is that Jonah, after being “fished” out of the water, actually was successful in ministering to the Ninevites. Of course it is the Lord that is remarkable. I often imagine that God also has worked His way in circumstances that I have encountered—even in spite of my actions or words. In many ways we seem to be reluctant prophets. But the power and providence of God are far beyond us. We have so much to learn. We need to continually praise Him for His actions among His people.

Today, I ask You, Father, to impress upon me that You alone are in control. I may have strange ideas about what to do, where to go, or how to speak. But it would be so much more convenient, yes even efficient, if I could just walk with Jesus. Don’t let me get ahead or behind Him, just let me submit to His leadership and walk closely with Him.
There will be moments when I would chose to go the wrong way. Stop me abruptly when I do this—I don’t want to cause grief to my fellow man. Thank You for Your wisdom and grace. Amen.
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