While preparing for the Bible Study on the Book of Jonah, I found myself almost laughing at the following verse from chapter one verse seven:
Then the sailors said to each other, “Come, let us cast lots to find out who is responsible for this calamity.” They cast lots and the lot fell on Jonah.
I laughed not because of the horrible situation where Jonah’s decisions to literally run away from God’s call to discipleship was putting the sailor’s lives in jeopardy, but because I can empathize with Jonah. Here he is in the boat trying to get away from spreading the Word of God, but instead of this bringing him peace and safety, it only makes a bad situation worse. I, myself, can personally relate to this struggle!
I have found that the storms of life come, and there is little that we can do about it, but be prepared to find a way through it. When we walk WITH God rather than AWAY from God, the struggles stop feeling so large and we begin to breathe again. Sometimes I wish that we could simply cast lots and find the answers to our questions, but then, I stop and am thankful that God is in control so that all I need to do is trust, wait, believe, and listen.
How is God calling you to spread the Good News of God to the world? As our world shows division, may we find ways to spread love. Even if it is to our own personal Ninevah! Put on the armor of God and be brave in the ways that you love like Jesus loves – unconditionally, sacrificially, forgivingly, and with open arms.
Blessings,
Pastor Amber
Missed last week’s message? → Finding Beauty in the Seasons – September 9, 2025
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