God of Second Chances
"Then the word of the LORD came to Jonah a second time: 'Go to the great city of Nineveh and proclaim to it the message I give you.' Jonah obeyed the word of the LORD and went to Nineveh."1
As far as following God was concerned, Jonah failed hopelessly. He defiantly did the opposite of what he knew he was supposed to do. But did God reject him? No. God allowed him to experience failure. Getting thrown overboard and being swallowed by a big fish brought Jonah to his senses real quick. When he was ready to listen, "the Word of the Lord came to Jonah a second time."
I am sure many of us can relate to Jonah. No matter how many times we feel we've failed or blown it, God will continue to call us to himself. However, it is much wiser to "listen up" quickly so God doesn't have to take drastic measures to get our attention.
If you feel you have failed, be encouraged. Now is the time to give God a chance. He can do great things with our lives if we give him all the pieces. God calls us all to follow him, so why not respond to his call and, if you haven't already done so, ask him to come into your life as Lord and Savior? He can use you for great things if you will trust him.
Suggested prayer: Dear God, thank you that you are a God of second (and many more) chances. Help me live obediently and in harmony with your will for my life, so that I will be usable to do great things for you. Thank you for hearing and answering my prayer. In Jesus' name, amen.
1. Jonah 3:1-3 (NIV).
Today's Encounter was written by: Crystal B.
All articles on this website are written by
Richard (Dick) Innes unless otherwise stated.