Ignoring the Call: Jonah Chapter 1 Devotional

The ship’s officer came and said to him, “How can you possibly be sleeping so deeply? Get up! Call on your god! Perhaps the god will give some thought to us so that we won’t perish.” – Jonah 1:6

Ignoring the call. We’ve all been there. The world throws us a curve ball. Deals us a bad hand. Presents us with a problem that for a multitude of reasons, we choose to ignore. Why do we ignore it? Maybe it’s because of selfishness in that following the path provided will take us away from our own personal goals and objectives. Maybe the call comes from the unlikeliest of sources, like sailors on a ship! Maybe it’s fear of failure, in that we lack the confidence and the trust in God and ourselves to take on what lies ahead. Motivations like fear and selfishness tend to be bad reasons for making certain decisions.

So, what happens when we ignore those opportunities to share God’s love with others? What’s our “great fish”?

Sometimes it’s boredom. Following God’s plans and sharing Christ’s love with others is anything but a “boring” life. It requires living – not sitting on the couch. Sometimes it’s lack of fulfillment, in that while we’ve been successful achieving our own goals, we still feel like something is missing in our pursuit of a fulfilled life. Or maybe it’s guilt that sets in as we watch others suffer and struggle when we know we could be helping. Or in Jonah’s case, maybe it’s direct turmoil and danger.

The next time you face an opportunity to share Christ’s love with others and you find yourself ignoring that call to action, ask yourself why you are ignoring it. Are your reasons justified? Are you putting your own motivations and intentions in front of sharing God’s love?

If the answer is yes, you might want to rethink your answer to the call. Lean in to the adventurous and fulfilling life Christ has offered when you put love and supporting others first, and pay that fact forward.

And avoid your “great fish”!

Holy, God of all that there is – we are grateful for your never-failing love, guidance, and protection. We thank you for the opportunities to spread your love first message to our peers, both loved ones and enemies alike, and ask that you give us guidance and clarity when those opportunities arise.  Amen

Written by Cale Pritchett. Cale has been a member of AUMC since winter 2019 where he enjoys participating in the music ministry.  He lives with his wife Christina, and 2 daughters Peyton and Anna in Brambleton.