Bible Reading: Jonah 4:1-11 & 2 Timothy 3:2
You remember Jonah of “I spent three days in the belly of a great fish” fame, don’t you?
Jonah was a world-class complainer. Jonah complained about how terrible the people of Nineveh
were. Jonah complained when God wanted to use him to convince the people of Nineveh to change their ways. Jonah complained when the people of Nineveh did change their ways and turn to God. Jonah complained when the people of Nineveh weren’t punished. Jonah complained when the vine God had given him for shade died overnight.
No matter what God did, he couldn’t satisfy Jonah. Jonah was ungrateful. Jonah’s ungratefulness and complaints made him so unhappy that he wanted to die.
Jonah isn’t alone. 2 Timothy 3:2 says, “People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful,…” Most people – all of us, in fact – are ungrateful, at least part of the time. Some never take time to thank God for all of the wonderful things He does for them.
I hope you and I have learned from Jonah’s lack of gratitude. Take time now to thank God for all of His precious gifts to you.
“…give thanks to the LORD for his unfailing love and his wonderful deeds for men.” Psalm 107:15
Prayer: Heavenly Father, forgive me for being an ungrateful complainer like Jonah. Thank You for all You have done and will do for me. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
What are you thankful for? Share your thoughts in the comments. I'd love to hear them & thank God on your behalf!