21st Century Jonah

 Most people know the story of Jonah. God wanted him to do something, but Jonah didn't want to. So…he ran to avoid doing God’s will. That’s where I’m going to stop with the story: not wanting to do God’s will.

Several months ago, I wrote about the difficulty I was having in reading my music and doing my Church work. I felt that if I couldn’t continue doing those things, what value was I to the Church or to God? God was trying to show me that He had other plans in mind, but I was reluctant to let go.

Let go, and let God…(ugh…I’m a cliched bumper sticker)

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and submit to him in all ways.” Proverbs 3:5-6

Sometimes, when we are reluctant to follow God’s plan, He may gently tap us on the shoulder, whisper in our ears, or shove us into a giant fish to get our attention. I got the fish (not literally but figuratively). Not to go into extensive detail, my heart was breaking because of things happening at my church that I disagreed with, so I resigned. God used the church’s strife to put His plan for me in motion.

See…it was hard letting go of a position I had for a really long time. It can be difficult letting go of the past when the future is so unclear. We want to hold tight to what we have and can see. Yet, for God’s will to take place, we must loosen our grips and give Him the reins. 

“I know the plans I have for you…” Jeremiah 29:11

“…in all things, God works for the good of those who love him.” Romans 8:28

For the first time in many years last Sunday, I wasn’t running around the church on Sunday getting everything ready, opening doors, folding bulletins, turning on lights, fixing the Keurig, preparing the computer and sound system. I went to a different church, was enveloped in worship (not worrying about the computer slides, congregations, etc), and focused on the sermon. Time stopped, the Holy Spirit moved, and I lived, loved, and worshiped. 

What an incredible experience…to worship without fear of people scowling at you. When we worship, God should be our focus not the others around us. Let the words of the songs wash over you. Let the Holy Spirit soothe your weary soul. Let the love of Christ fill your heart to bursting.That is what worship is.

Don’t be afraid to show your love for God. Don’t be afraid to let go of the past, the anger, the hurt, the sorrow. Let it go out, and let God come in. I did…I’ve let go of my anger and hurt. I’m at peace and am looking forward to what God has in store.

“Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me.” Psalm 51:10 ESV

Don’t be a “Jonah” when God comes calling…

Love in Christ, PB

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