In the book of Jonah, we learn the reason for the prophet’s round trip journey to the bottom of the ocean and back. Jonah was running away from God’s call on his life. But don’t miss this financial detail recorded in chapter 1 verse 2.
“But ---Jonah ran away from the Lord and headed for Tarshish. He went down to Joppa, where he found a ship bound for that port. After paying the fare, he went aboard and sailed for Tarshish to flee from the Lord.”
This reference to Jonah’s financial decision has significant implications for each of us today. More often than we care to admit, we Christians use our financial resources in a manner that leads us away from following God. Let this remind us that all our financial decisions have gravity. The time and attention they require can distract us from listening to and even obeying God. May we never let money be an excuse to run from God’s call.
Ephesians 5:15-17 says it like this: “Be very careful, then, how you live – not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is.”
So are you being careful how you live? Are you using money to willfully disobey God’s call on your life? Has it distracted or deterred you from doing what He wants you to do? It can often be subtle. Jonah probably never thought that ticket on the boat at Joppa would lead him inside the belly of a great fish. Examine your heart and fully obey God, no matter what He wants you to do.
