The Arkansas Farm Girl

Thursday's Thoughts- Jonah Chapter Four 1-3. God was quick to forgive Nineveh, but, like most people, Jonah had some issues with accepting His plan. He had heard God swear to destroy the city, and then, just as quickly, forgive them of everything and spare their lives. His response was to immediately question God. Here he was in his enemies city waiting for them to be overthrown like they had done to Israel and God was changing his mind. He was so upset that he even told God it would be better for him to die than live another moment. 4-11. In his fit of rage, Jonah left the city and went into the mountains to see if God would really spare the city. It was hot so God made a gourd to grow up to give Jonah some shade. Jonah was more than happy for the plant and accompanying shade and he rested. To teach him a lesson, God made a worm to destroy the plant while Jonah slept. In the morning, God sent a hot wind which scorched Jonah until he felt that he'd rather die. Now comes Go...

Jonah Chapter Three What a wild ride Jonah has had. He boarded a boat which got caught in a storm due to his own disobedience, was thrown over board and swallowed by a fish, but now he is on dry land and on his way to Nineveh. 1-4. God came to Jonah a second time and told him to go to Nineveh. This time Jonah wisely accepted. Jonah went to his enemies and told them that if they didn't repent withing forty days their city would be destroyed.  5-10. The people heard Jonah and immediately repented. Their king proclaimed a fast and put on sackcloth which simbalized mourning. The people turned from their adultery, thievery and murder and cried out to God for forgiveness. They feared God would not hear them, but they prayed anyway. Of course, God heard their prayers and He decided not to destroy the city, because He is a God of second chances. Just like in the last chapter we see that God will always forgive us.