May 31 | Jonah 1:17; 2:10

“But the Lord appointed a great fish and it happened that Jonah was in the belly of the fish three days and three nights.” (Jonah 1:17)

“Then the Lord spoke to the fish and it vomited Jonah onto dry land.” (Jonah 2:10)

Don’t you hate it when you’re driving down the road, enjoying the experience, and you realize you are lost? Sometimes when we are headed in the wrong direction we need help. Even though the guys don’t want to admit it, GPS’s can really get you out of a jam.

Jonah knew he was headed in the wrong direction. He told the sailors to throw him into the sea so he could receive the punishment he deserved. He had disobeyed God and it was time to pay the price.

But God wasn’t done with this Karen it’s hardwayward prophet yet. The topBut he was still disciplining Jonah. Imagine a giant fish coming right at you and then swallowing you. Jonah probably wanted to drown instead.

Though this was God’s act of salvation for Jonah at the moment, it was also still discipline for disobeying him. It probably smelled awful in that fish. Jonah spent the whole time praying and asking forgiveness. And then at the end it vomited him up onto the shore.

We’re not talking first-class travel here. Even when you disobey God, when you repent he can still use you. God’s plan for Jonah would get back on track. It’s amazing God could use him at all.

Action Step: If you made some bad decisions or sinned against the Lord, repent so he can use you again. He doesn’t have to use you, but he wants to. Even if it’s the most painful repentance, you must do it to return to his grace.

Jesus, I’m so glad you never let me go. I repent of my sins and disobedience. I want to be used by you again for your plan. Make my way straight so I can serve you and bring glory to your name.