This post is Day 17 in a series of studies about “Jonah”. I strongly suggest you begin with the introduction to this study, please click here to read it.

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Jonah – Day 17

Speaking about your faith at a dinner party with non believers round the table, or in an office coffee break. These things can be embarrassing. God is not concerned about our timidity or embarrassment. He is trying to break us out of our comfort zones and move His kingdom forward.

Jonah 3:3-4

Now Nineveh was a very important city; a visit required three days. On the first day, Jonah started into the city. He proclaimed: “Forty more days and Nineveh will be overturned.”

The Thought

To see all the city, and consequently to shout this message in every street would have taken three days, maybe longer if people stopped him to ask questions, or show interest in what he was shouting out! Maybe they just all thought he was crazy!

Can you imagine walking round a city far from your home where few people know you, and shouting these words over and over again for three whole days? No wonder Jonah didn’t want to obey God. Often it can be embarrassing doing what God asks.

The first time people pray aloud in a prayer meeting can seem like a mammoth hurdle overcome! When someone responds to a call to commitment or for prayer it is not always easy for them, and they feel the whole world is watching them.

Speaking out about your faith at a dinner party with non believers round the table, or in an office coffee break: these things can be embarrassing. God is not concerned about our timidity or embarrassment. He is trying to break us out of our comfort zones and move His kingdom forward. Are you ready to obey?

Action

Pray again, (like yesterday) for an obedient heart, and even more enthusiasm for God’s Kingdom than you already have.

Read a chapter of one of the gospels and hear the message of Jesus for those who were listening. Dare to tell others what you read.

Praise Him that He is longing to expand our territory, and change our comfort zones, because He has much more for each of us than we have already experienced.

Dare to ask Him today what He would like you to do for Him.

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