Jonah was a prophet called by God for a special mission. He was the first cross-cultural missionary, prophet who crossed borders for a special mission, an evangelist to a city and was also attested by Lord Jesus Christ as a Type of Messiah. (Matthew 12:40) Interestingly, he knew God well, his attributes, requirements, Law, and heard the voice of God. From the port of Joppa, instead of going to Nineveh, he took a ship to Tarshish. God brought tempest that Jonah was thrown into the sea, where a fish swallowed him. His prayer and commitment gave him a second chance to reach Nineveh. His fire and brimstone message of God’s judgment brought repentance and God did not destroy Nineveh. Jonah complained to God: “And he prayed to the Lord and said, “O Lord, is not this what I said when I was yet in my country? That is why I made haste to flee to Tarshish; for I knew that you are a gracious God and merciful, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love, and relenting from disaster. (Jonah 4:2)
Gracious to me, not to others: Jonah understands that God was gracious, he had experienced his amazing grace, but he would not share with others.
Merciful to me, not others: Jonah was familiar with God’s mercy. However, it was privileged possession of the Nation of Israel and not for Ninevites.
Patient with me, not others: Jonah said that Lord is slow to anger, nevertheless he expected Lord to fast in executing judgment on non-Israelite.
Steadfast love to me: God’s love is steadfast, inexhaustible and transformational. That too should be for Jonah, the Nation of Israel and not to others.
Relenting from destruction: Jonah knew that God is always willing to forgive those who genuinely repent, express faith in God, humble themselves and forsake sin. Jonah wanted God, not to give opportunity and time for repentance, but destroy Nineveh.
Even today, many disciples are selfish like Jonah; seeking, longing, cherishing and privileging His blessings, unwilling to share or announce to others.
Am I a victim of Selfish Spirituality?