By Pastor Dr. Aggrey Soyekwo
Jonah 3:10 "When God saw what they did and how they turned from their evil ways, he relented and did not bring on them the destruction he had threatened." - NIV
Jonah’s mission was to deliver a message to Nineveh, a city whose evil had reached levels in which God’s judgement was inevitable(Jonah1:2). Instead of straight away bring judgement on them, God in His justice gave them a chance to repent of their evil. Upon Jonah’s preaching, they repented and God relented from bringing the calamity He had threatened.
Such is the heart of God: loving, compassionate, just and righteous. He doesn’t wish anyone to perish. He gives opportunities over and over again to those who need to repent and turn from their wicked ways. He warned Israel severally over many years before He finally allowed destruction. He still warns humanity.
Todate, He gives people chance to mend their ways. This call comes through the preaching of His word. Some despise it and continue in their wicked ways. Others acknowledge their sins, repent and are redeemed. Even in His most fierce punishment, God is just, loving and compassionate. Let no man think God is weak when He patiently bears with those who reject and despise His ways. He is a patient compassionate and forgiving God!
2 Chronicles 36:15-16 "The Lord, the God of their ancestors, sent word to them through his messengers again and again, because he had pity on his people and on his dwelling place. But they mocked God’s messengers, despised his words and scoffed at his prophets until the wrath of the Lord was aroused against his people and there was no remedy."
2 Peter 3:9 "The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance."
Shalom children of God