Reflections on Jonah 4

Let’s be honest—Jonah 4 is a strange ending to a prophet’s story. You’d think that after preaching a powerful message that leads an entire city to repentance, Jonah would be thrilled. But no. He’s angry. Disappointed. Even sulking.

Why? Because God showed mercy.

Jonah wanted judgment. He wanted the wicked people of Nineveh to get what they deserved. But God, in His infinite compassion, gave them grace instead—and Jonah couldn’t handle it.

Have you ever felt that way?

It’s hard to admit, but sometimes we struggle when God blesses others—especially when we don’t think they deserve it. Or maybe we’ve done all the “right things” and still feel like we’re sitting in the sun, waiting for our turn to be noticed, blessed, or vindicated. Like Jonah, we’re quick to forget that the same grace God gives to others is the grace He gives to us every single day.

In Jonah 4, God gently reminds Jonah (and us) that His love is bigger than our bitterness, and His mercy is not ours to control. He asks Jonah, “Is it right for you to be angry?” (v.4) and then uses a plant—of all things—to illustrate just how invested Jonah is in his own comfort, and how little compassion he has for a city full of people who didn’t know better.

Here’s the hope in this: God doesn’t give up on Jonah. Even when Jonah is pouting and prideful, God is still speaking. Still teaching. Still reaching for his heart.

Maybe today you’re wrestling with unfairness. Or you’re waiting for God to act the way you would act. Jonah 4 reminds us that God’s ways are higher, His mercy is wider, and His heart is always, always loving.

Take heart, friend. If you’re sitting in the heat of disappointment or confusion, God is still with you. He’s still speaking—and He’s inviting you to grow in grace.

A little note: I’ll be taking a short break from blogging over the next few weeks, but I’ll be back with new posts in September. Wishing you a safe, refreshing, and joy-filled August. See you soon!