Jonah 2:1: What to Do Inside the Belly

Jonah 2:1 “From inside the fish Jonah prayed to the Lord his God.”

Have you ever found yourself inside the belly of a fish?

Well, I don’t mean literally. That would be highly unusual. But have you found yourself in a bad situation of your own making, and you didn’t have any idea how you were going to get out of it?

Yes, I have too. It’s not the most pleasant place to be, is it?

Jonah found himself curled up in that dark, stinky fish belly, and I’m sure he just wanted to die. He probably thought he was going to die, a slow, painful, disgusting death. Yet, for some reason, far below the surface of the water, God allowed Jonah to keep breathing. And since he had no particular place to go, other than where the fish carried him, he decided he might as well pray.

praying hands

You know, I love the reminder that no matter where we find ourselves, God is always right there with us. We can talk to Him, and He will listen.

Not only that, but He longs to hear us call out His name. Sometimes, He will allow us to get exactly what we deserve, because He knows that then and only then will we cry out to Him. It was true in Jonah’s case, and it is true for us, as well.

Though we may find ourselves in the worst possible circumstances, God will continue to love us. He will continue to bless us, as He blessed Jonah with air. And when we call to Him, He hears us. Though our situation may seem helpless, God can deliver us. He has important plans for each of our lives, and He wants to see those plans through to the end.

So wherever you are, my friend, no matter how stinky and nasty, just keep praying.

God hears you. He is right there.

Dear Father,

I’m sorry for getting myself into difficult situations. Thank You for never leaving me, and for always listening to me when I call out to You.

Amen

2 Responses to Jonah 2:1: What to Do Inside the Belly

  1. September 9, 2009 #

    I praise and thank Him that He loves us no matter what. Just like we love our kids, only even more completely and without fail. How blessed we are to be His children!

    Renae, hope things are going well as you and your family adjust to your new routine. Blessings!

  2. September 9, 2009 #

    Thanks, Cheryl! It is a difficult adjustment. All prayers appreciated!

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