“Now the word of the Lord came to Jonah the son of Amittai, saying, “Arise, go to Nineveh, that great city, and call out against it, for their evil has come up before me.” But Jonah rose to flee to Tarshish from the presence of the Lord. He went down to Joppa and found a ship going to Tarshish. So he paid the fare and went on board, to go with them to Tarshish, away from the presence of the Lord.” – Jonah 1:1-3 (ESV)
Like Jonah, many of us make vain attempts to “hide” from God’s calling; we convince ourselves that His voice is our minds playing tricks on us, we ignore the signs He places in our lives each day, and we “write off” His Blessings as happy coincidence. When we open our hearts to the understanding that we’re in the grip of a loving Heavenly Father and accept His guidance into our lives, we take on new purpose and can truly live in abundance.
Hi, I’m Phil Malmstrom, a.k.a. Phather Phil. I’m self-employed, father of two wonderful young men, an ordained minister who delights in spreading Jesus’ Message of Hope and Love, a science-fiction junkie, an aspiring photographer and above all that one of God’s Children who rejoices in His Blessings each day. 
Phil, this is excellent encouragement to say yes to Him!
So true, Phil but it is also so hard to discern exactly where He is leading at times. Right now I hear Him say Wait – now am doubting if it is my fears speaking or really hearing Him. Planning of going on a silent retreat next month and hope to come home with more clarity. Then can answer His call. good thoughts today here!
The very idea of hiding from Him makes me giggle… don’t get me wrong I’ve attempted it, but how very futile. He doesn’t need me to get the job done, but boy do I want to be used by him! That abundance you mentioned is exactly what I want. Blessings Phil!
I giggle right along with Heidi! I’ve tried to run and hide, to no avail! Just like Jonah, I always end-up in the belly of “ignorance.” So, as I’ve grown more close to the Lord, I realize that I have to step-up to the plate, trembling, but confident that He is by my side. Great post!
Like Jonah I have tried to hide without success! And yet I still seek to live out His purpose for my life. I am so grateful for His patience with us.
Why do we think we can hide from God? I too have tried hiding and it just doesn’t work and I am so glad it doesn’t. When we listen to God and do what He wants us to anything is possible. Thanks for the great post.
Blessings to you.
Phil, I just saw on facebook that you had lost Brandy. I am so sorry, there are no words that seem to help when we have lost a pet, you had her for such a long time. My thoughts and prayers are with you, I do know what you are going through.
I am not very computer knowlegable and I could not find where to make a comment on facebook but I just wanted you to know my thoughts and prayers are with you.
God bless you always, Phil.