Day 3: Jonah Goes to Nineveh

Admittedly, the story of Jonah is one of the more bizarre stories in the Bible. Is it to be taken literally? Was there really a giant fish that swallowed Jonah? How did he stay alive for three days? What, exactly, is the book communicating to us? What are the main lessons in the story?

These are all good questions, and not all can be answered in full in this week’s readings. But it’s important to remember that if you believe in the death and resurrection of Jesus, the story of Jonah is far less of a miracle.
After crying out to God in Chapter 2, God commands the fish to vomit Jonah out onto dry land. Doesn’t that sound pleasant? The HCSB Study Bible notes that this event may symbolize God’s disgust at Jonah’s prior disobedience or even his continued bad attitude.

From here, Jonah’s trip to Nineveh probably took about a month. And the city was so large, it takes Jonah 3 days to travel through it. During this time, Jonah would have needed to communicate God’s message at every major gate and temple throughout the city.

As you read today, consider this: How do you think Jonah felt throughout these experiences?

READING:

    JONAH 3

What problems was Jonah facing?

How do you think Jonah felt throughout these experiences?

F260 READING: (A Scripture Reading Plan for Busy Believers)

Read: Joshua 23 & 24

Reflect: What did you H.E.A.R. from God today? HEAR Bible Study Method

PRAYER:

Heavenly Father, the story of Jonah is an excellent reminder that I am not alone in feeling confused, depressed, and even frustrated by the challenges that come my way. It’s also an excellent reminder that the things You are inviting me to be part of are not simple, will take time, and may have results that aren’t what I hope or plan for. Nevertheless, I know that whatever circumstances may come my way, You are with me. If You invite me to share Your message with a family member, colleague, or friend, You will be with me. If, like Jonah, You invite me to share Your message with people who think and act completely different than everybody else I know, even then You will be with me. Today I simply want to rejoice in the reminder that no matter what, You are with me. I pray in Jesus’ name. Amen.

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