God had a specific mission for Jonah. The Lord directed him to Nineveh to preach to the Assyrians. However, Jonah refused and ran in the opposite direction. The Hebrew text says Jonah went “down” to Joppa, “down” into the hold of the ship, and eventually was tossed “down” into the sea where he was swallowed by a giant fish. This paints a picture of spiritual descent that resulted from his disobedience and rebellion.

I called out to the Lord, out of my distress, and he answered me; out of the belly of Sheol I cried, and you heard my voice.

Jonah 2:2

In today’s verse, Sheol represented a grave and the fish’s stomach was metaphorically like a tomb. Yet Jonah eventually had a change of heart and thanked the Lord for saving him from drowning in such a miraculous way. God heard Jonah’s prayer from inside the fish and delivered him to continue his mission.

Always know that you can trust your Heavenly Father with your past, present and future. Even when circumstances appear stormy, remember that He is with you, hears your prayers, and will help you fulfill His purposes as you give your humble obedience. Pray also that America’s leaders who are running from God would turn their hearts toward His love, mercy and grace.

Recommended Reading: Deuteronomy 31:1-8