Scriptural Reference: Jonah 1:1-2:10

All of us have the propensity to run from the Will of God. Interestingly enough, I have found through experiences, that most of our running involves the things that we are most sure God is calling us to do.

In the book of Jonah, Jonah really brings this point home. He is a prophet of God and seems to have a good understanding of what God is calling him to do. God tells Jonah to go to Nineveh, the capital of the Assyrian Empire, and cry out against the wickedness of the people. For most of us, this is not so tough if we know that the people have a heart for God and are open to correction. Yet, this people are a cruel, pagan society. So, it does not take Jonah’s flesh long to realize the danger posed to it and also causes him to have to deal with the fact that the enemy of his people could be saved if they repent. Jonah’s response, go about as far away from Nineveh as he could get. For Jonah, that meant trying to go to Tarshish.

Where is your Tarshish? What place are you fleeing to as you try to get away from the Will of God for your life? You see, we all have a Tarshish or two. We just don’t always want to admit it. I encourage you today to stop running from God and stand strong and face the assignment(s) He has given you in full assurance of faith.

Instead of focusing on what you may lose, choose to focus on what you have to gain from obeying God. It’s time to address the Tarshish Mentality that keeps you in the belly of the whale.