Well, that’s what Jonah shows us. But look at what God shows us in this same passage. God shows us that He is merciful, patient, and full of grace. He is able to use our mistakes to help others get to know Him. He loves us all, saints and sinners—even those people you don’t like, and He may use you to reach those very people.
And after Jonah finally obeyed God, an entire city of people repented. God gave them all a second chance. (Jonah 3:4-10) God used Jonah to bless 120,000 people—even when he didn’t really want to do it. God’s purpose will always prevail. Isaiah 55:10-11 (NLT) reminds us, “The rain and snow come down from the heavens and stay on the ground to water the earth. They cause the grain to grow, producing seed for the farmer and bread for the hungry. It is the same with my word. I send it out, and it always produces fruit. It will accomplish all I want it to, and it will prosper everywhere I send it.”
When God gives us instruction, we sometimes run in the opposite direction, claiming that He is asking us to do too much. But it really is better to just obey Him from the start instead of having to always push the restart button. Why seek God and then run from Him? When that second chance presents itself, and it will, make it count!
The Manna Chef 