Contemplative Bible Reading

Jonah 3:10-4:1 (New Living Translation)

10 When God saw what they had done and how they had put a stop to their evil ways, he changed his mind and did not carry out the destruction he had threatened. 1 This change of plans greatly upset Jonah, and he became very angry.

Jonah was a reluctant but successful evangelist. God saw the people of Nineveh repent. God changed His mind and did not destroy the great city and all its people.

Jonah didn’t like God’s new plan. Jonah wanted his plan to be executed.

That’s about the way it is, folks. I (like Jonah) have my plan; God has His plan. I am not God. That can be downright aggravating at times. God does what is best. I admit that, but sometimes, I don’t like it, and I don’t understand it, and you know …

God, help me in my lack of understanding and dislike of Your plans. Grant me the humility to know that I am not You. These things seem so simple, but sometimes just don’t sink in.