Introduction

The concept of "Tarshish" in the Bible is often associated with distant lands, wealth, and the notion of fleeing from God's presence. It serves as a metaphor for the places or situations we seek when attempting to escape divine calling or responsibility. Reflecting on our own "Tarshish" invites us to examine the areas in our lives where we might be resisting God's will.

Biblical References

Tarshish is mentioned several times in the Bible, often in the context of trade and wealth. In 1 Kings 10:22, we read, "For the king had the ships of Tarshish at sea with the ships of Hiram. Once every three years, the ships of Tarshish would arrive bearing gold, silver, ivory, apes, and peacocks." This passage highlights Tarshish as a symbol of prosperity and the allure of material wealth.

However, the most notable reference to Tarshish is found in the Book of Jonah. Jonah 1:3 states, "But Jonah got up to flee to Tarshish from the presence of the LORD. He went down to Joppa and found a ship bound for Tarshish. So he paid the fare and went aboard to sail for Tarshish, away from the presence of the LORD." Here, Tarshish represents a place of escape, a destination chosen to avoid God's command to go to Nineveh.

Symbolism and Meaning

In the biblical narrative, Tarshish symbolizes both the temptation of worldly riches and the human tendency to flee from divine obligations. It is a place where one might seek refuge from the demands of faith, a metaphor for the distractions and diversions that lead us away from God's path.

Reflecting on our own Tarshish involves identifying the "ships" we board to escape God's call. These can be physical places, such as environments or relationships that draw us away from spiritual growth, or metaphorical ones, like habits, fears, or ambitions that hinder our obedience to God.

Spiritual Reflection

The account of Jonah serves as a powerful reminder of the futility of fleeing from God's presence. Despite Jonah's attempt to escape, God intervenes, demonstrating His sovereignty and relentless pursuit of His purposes. Jonah 1:4 recounts, "Then the LORD hurled a great wind upon the sea, and such a violent storm arose that the ship threatened to break apart." This illustrates that no matter how far we run, God's reach is inescapable.

Reflecting on our own Tarshish challenges us to confront the areas in our lives where we resist God's call. It encourages us to examine our motivations and the ways we might prioritize personal desires over divine directives. By acknowledging these tendencies, we can seek repentance and realignment with God's will.

Practical Application

To reflect on our own Tarshish, we must engage in self-examination and prayer, asking God to reveal the areas where we are resistant to His guidance. This process involves:

1. Identifying Distractions: Recognize the pursuits or desires that divert our attention from God's purposes.
2. Seeking Accountability: Engage with fellow believers who can provide support and encouragement in our spiritual journey.
3. Embracing Obedience: Commit to following God's call, even when it leads us out of our comfort zones or challenges our personal ambitions.

By addressing our own Tarshish, we open ourselves to the transformative work of God, allowing Him to guide us toward His intended path and purpose.