23 August

“And it came to pass, when the sun did arise, that God prepared a vehement east wind; the sun beat upon the head of Jonah, that he fainted, and wished in himself to die, and said, It is better for me to die than to live.” (Jonah 4:8)

“I continually discipline and punish everyone I love; so I must punish you unless you turn from your indifference and become enthusiastic about the things of God.”(Revelation 3:19 TLB)

ACTION: Repent quickly of sins. Those who persist in rebellion against God receive His harsh judgement. Sometimes we behave just like Jonah, selfishly angry and defiant, caring much more about the things we love (even inanimate objects and our reputation) than people who are perishing from not knowing the Lord. In His mercy, God does not destroy us, but gently teaches us lessons to direct us back on the right pilgrim’s path. Receive it with humility.

PRAYER: Lord, please accept our sorrow for our disobedience, for taking You for granted and preferring our will to Your glory, in Jesus name, Amen. God is a disciplinarian!