GETTING IT RIGHT ON THE INSIDE

GETTING IT RIGHT ON THE INSIDE

READ:
Jonah 4

Then the LORD said, "Is it
right for you to be angry?"
-Jonah 4:4

I love the story of Jonah!  It's full of drama and important life lessons. 

After stubbornly refusing to do God's will, Jonah finally preached a revival service in Nineveh that would have made him one of the most successful missionaries of his time.  When the people repented and turned from their wicked ways-and when God relented and turned from His anger against them-you would have expected Jonah to rejoice.  Instead, he was angry that God was merciful.  Why?  Although he was finally obeying God by doing the right thing in the right place, he was deeply flawed on the inside.

Like Jonah, if we are not careful, we can be spiritulally "looking good" on the outside, but far from God in our hearts.  He is most interested in what we are like on the inside.  His Word is "sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit"  (Hebrew 4:12).  With it, He performs divine surgery to remove the greed, dishonesty, hatred, pride, and selfishness that live in the deep shadows of our hearts.

So the next time the Holy Spirit convicts you and asks you about your bad attitude (see Jonah 4:4) - listen carefully.  Surrender and let Him change you from the inside out. -Joe Stowell

I confess, heavenly Father, that I know what it's like
to be more concerned about my outward obedience
than my inner rebellion.  I want to look good to others.
Forgive me.  Change me and make me pure within.
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If God controls you on the inside,
you'll be genuine on the outside.

INSIGHT
In Jonah 4, God used several elements of creation (plant, worn, and wind) to teach His frustrated servant.  God frequently uses ordinary things to teach extraordinary lessons about Himself and His love (for example, Jesus' use of parables).

Have a blessed day and week ahead.
God Our Creator's Love Always
Unity & Peace