February 26, 2025

“Jonah got up to flee to Tarshish from the Lord’s presence. He went down to Joppa and found a ship going to Tarshish. He paid the fare and went down into it to go with them to Tarshish from the Lord’s presence.” – Jonah 1:3

When I first bought my Mustang at 18 years old, I didn’t really know much about cars. Everything I did on that car was accomplished with the help of my uncle Randy. Whenever a project needed done, or especially when something was wrong that I couldn’t figure out, I went to see Randy and he got me all straightened out…except for one time…We had planned a project on my car and it just so happened the only day I was free was a day he needed to repair his roof from a recent hail storm. I went to his house to start the project, and he said, “I am sorry, but I can’t help you today. I have to get this roof fixed and I could really use your help, but you are still welcome to work in the shop if you want.” Frustrated, I went to the shop to get to work. However, I quickly realized that I didn’t have the wisdom to know how to start. And even if I could get started, I don’t think it was something I could do on my own. Finally, I realized that if I messed this up, it could be dangerous. What I learned that day was that the important thing was not working on my car. The important thing was being with Uncle Randy and learning from him. So, I pulled the car out of the shop, grabbed a hammer, and climbed up on the roof.

When we run away from God’s calling to pursue our own projects and purposes, three very important things happen. First of all, we are without divine guidance. He allows us to go our own way, but we must do it with our own wisdom. Second, we do not have help. Our own mission has to be accomplished under our own strength. Finally, we are responsible for the results. Whatever pain or chaos we cause lies squarely on our own heads. God is calling you to live a life obedient to him. That life is not always easy, but living it assures that you will always have the guidance of his wisdom, the strength of his Holy Spirit, and the confidence of knowing he is working for your good and the good of those around you.

Father, forgive us for the times we have run away from You and gone our own way. Give us the confidence to follow You into whatever places You may lead, knowing that You will never leave us or forsake us.

In Christ’s Service,
Pastor Shane