“I wonder how it felt to wake up in the belly of a whale,” go the lyrics of an old Bill and Gloria Gaither song about Jonah, a popular children’s Bible story and relatable character.

What I have vowed I will pay. Salvation belongs to the Lord!

Jonah 2:9

Jonah walked with the Lord, but when the Creator asked Jonah to go to Nineveh, the prophet declined. He knew the Ninevites would repent and ask God for mercy, but Jonah didn’t think they deserved it. From the belly of a great fish who swallowed him, the pouting prophet changed his mind and agreed to bring the Lord’s message wherever God sent him.

Ever have the same attitude about the lost in America thinking they don’t deserve grace? But grace is just that – a gift you don’t deserve. “For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God.” (Ephesians 2:8) Thank God for the lessons in Jonah’s story, and ask Him to open your heart to those who aren’t aware of Christ’s love. Pray especially for any of your nation’s leaders who don’t know Him.

Recommended Reading: Jonah 2:1-10