The consequences of our decisions and actions

SUMMARY: The story of Jonah teaches us about the consequences of our decisions and actions. Jonah's disobedience had consequences for those around him, just as the collective decisions and actions of the people of Nineveh had consequences for everyone in the city. However, God's character is one of mercy and grace, and he offers redemption to all human beings through the sacrifice of Christ. To fulfill God's will for our lives, we must be willing to renew our minds and change our actions. This may be an individual or communal challenge, but we must allow the Holy Spirit to work in us to synchronize our decisions and actions with God's sovereignty.

Few stories are as fascinating as that of Jonah. I still remember how in Sunday school for children we sang the 'chorus' about this Hebrew prophet and his encounter with the huge fish. And all because he 'did not heed the word of God'. But this story is a bit more complex than the lyrics of this nursery rhyme. Actually this story has a lot to tell us about the consequences of our decisions and actions. In this story Jonah defies God's command both by decision (refusing to obey) and by action (setting sail in the opposite direction of his assigned mission).

The story tells us that while on the high seas a noisy storm was unleashed. Between a rough sea and some waves that destroyed the barge, there was one who disobeyed along with another group of people who had absolutely nothing to do with the cause of that storm. Jonah's life was just one of those in danger. Here is one of the principles of this story! Our disobedience always has consequences for those who live with us. We are not beings disconnected from our social context. What I decide and do affects both me and my spouse, my children, my neighbors, my church, and my society.