white flag by andy stanley

the story of Jonab

1. how often do we flee away from God? dont we always choose to do the strangest things to run away from God? ( in order to run away from God, Jonab choosed to travel to spain, where was pretty much the furthest place in planet in ancient time)

2. we always only call out to God when we are in despair (Jonab called out to God when he waas in the stomache of the big fish and God answered his distress call)

3.why did Jonab run away from God's call
Jonab perhaps knew more much about God's character *slow to anger, abounding in love *
maybe he had submitted himself to the will of God but not the purpose of God to the world. being a good Christian, we may become judgemental and forget that we need equal amount of grace from God each single day.the danger of becoming a good christian, moral person, we gradually become so self-absorb that religion becomes all about us. become like Jonab-the obstacle of God's grace

=> sumbit to God to become the extention of God's compassion, love and grace
God wants everyone to be inside to experience His love and grace

personal applications: 
1. bring self-righteous to the cross as the righteous is from our faith in christ 
2.without God's grace we are only the object of His wrath. maybe there is not such a thing of one person is better than another??? it is God's role to judge others, why will i intend to play in God;s role? 
3. with God's grace, we become the extention of His love, compassion and grace
4. love can melt down the heart of stones, God works through us 

the book of esther

Esther saved the Jews. Her life teaches us these vital lessons
1. There is a preparation time.
She allowed herself to be prepared for the task. God's preparation time can sometimes be long and uneventful. Moses spent 40 years in the desert looking after sheep before coming to deliver the Israelites. The refining of our characters is very essential to God's plan for our life. God cannot use a proud woman (or man).
2. We need the favour of God.
Esther found favour with the King and so did Mordecai. Even Jesus grew in favour with God and man (Luke 2:52). When you live a life pleasing to God, by obeying His will you will find favour with Him. God will also give you favour with people.
3. God works in His own time and season.
Esther also got her timing right. Maybe God has put it on your heart to do something for Him. Don't just jump into it but wait for his time. Joseph was in jail until it was God's time for him to be released. God will move in His time when we remain faithful and alert to His leading.
4. Your background does not hinder your future with God.
Esther was an orphan. God still exalted her and used her. Some of Jesus' disciples were fishermen, tax collectors and one was a doctor. Your background does not determine what God can do with you. Your faith does.