Jonah ran from God because he did not feel others were deserving of God’s grace. God gives His grace to whom He pleases and asks us to serve others to show them this grace. He did not leave us without an example. In fact He gave us the greatest example, His own son. When Christ knelt at the feet of the disciples in the upper room, He did not grumble that no one else took the initiative. Instead, He willingly did the task of a servant even with crucifixion looming. He did not say look what I’ve done or am about to do, but look at what I am doing.
“If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet. For I have given you an example that you also should do just as I have done to you.” John 13:14-15 ESV
We are to give back to God in our service, to do each work for Him. But what happens when we lose heart? When grumbling replaces the joy of service? When our saltiness sours and our light dims?
Perhaps you’ve lost the joy of serving your family, dishes and laundry piling up too high. Perhaps you’ve lost the passion in your career but finances dictate you remain. Whatever the reason, joy can be restored. If the laundry is too high and you find yourself grumbling, becoming angry at those you are called to serve and love, walk away from the chore and find a quiet place to pray and rest. The same with work. It is not the task that is the problem, it is something deeper and much more important. When my heart is not right with God, when I’ve neglected the one most important relationship in my life, that is when my light becomes hidden and others do not see the glory of God in me.
It is my prayer for you today that if you are in a season of disquiet that you will find the longing of your heart. May God’s light shine brightly where you are hurting, providing healing and equip you to serve Him with joy.
Prayer: Lord give me passion and desire to serve others in your name. Help me show your joy to others even when I feel joyless. Restore that joy to me. Amen.
Thoughts for the day: When you find yourself overwhelmed or frustrated today, retreat to a quiet place and ask God to restore your joy.
Psalm 51:12 ESV
“Restore to me the joy of your salvation,
and uphold me with a willing spirit.”