Rerouted: 30 Days Through the Book of JonahSample

Called to Hard Things

Mei Au

Jonah 1:1-2

I remember the first time I heard the truth that God calls me by name (Isaiah 43:1). The thought of an almighty God who knows me and speaks to me personally resonated deep in my soul.

However, when I sensed God calling me to be a Christian writer and speaker, I was overwhelmed. As a "numbers person," writing was never my dream. I even echoed Moses’ words in Exodus 4:10: “Lord, I am not eloquent … I am slow of speech and of tongue.” I tried to run from God, but I’ve since learned that the harder the task He gives us, the more our obedience glorifies Him.

Jonah’s story begins with God calling him to Nineveh, the capital of Assyria. Not much is known about Jonah except that he was a prophet. He is mentioned in 2 Kings 14:25, where he prophesied about Israel's King Jeroboam II (786-746 B.C.) regaining lost territory. For a proud Israelite like Jonah, God’s command to “arise, go to Nineveh” (Jonah 1:2) was shocking. It meant, "Go to your enemies."

Assyria had become a major military power, conquering nations in the region (Isaiah 37:18). Historical sources suggest Israel became a vassal state under Assyria's King Shalmaneser III in the 800s B.C., and King Jehu, Jeroboam II’s great-grandfather, had to pay tribute. Assyria was also known for brutal treatment of captives. Some scholars believe Jonah’s hatred stemmed from their cruelty toward his people — or even his own family. The mention of Nineveh likely stirred bitterness and fear in his heart.

Like He did with Jonah, God may call us to uncomfortable places that feel like Ninevehs. Sometimes this means physically going somewhere unfamiliar. Other times we may be called to mend a relationship with someone who hurt us. The thought may make us want to run — yet God calls us to partner with Him.

The Creator of the universe does not need our help, but He invites us to bring His hope to a broken world. Whether it's forgiving (Luke 6:36-37), sharing the gospel (Matthew 28:19-20), or surrendering something that doesn’t honor Him (Ephesians 5:3), our obedience has eternal significance.

Choosing God’s will is not always comfortable, but it yields Kingdom rewards. One day, we can look forward to hearing our Father’s voice: “Well done, good and faithful servant” (Matthew 25:21).