So they took up Jonah and threw him into the sea; and the sea ceased its raging. Then the men feared Yahweh exceedingly; and they offered a sacrifice to Yahweh and made vows. Yahweh prepared a huge fish to swallow up Jonah, and Jonah was in the belly of the fish three days and three nights. Then Jonah prayed to Yahweh, his God, out of the fish's belly. He said, "I called because of my affliction to Yahweh. He answered me. Out of the belly of Sheol I cried. You heard my voice. Jonah 1:15'2:2 WEB.

While Jonah sat in the black darkness alone, he contemplated his situation from inside the great fish. The Lord had told him to go and preach to Nineveh. Then Jonah decided to do something else entirely, and he ran the other way.

In time, his past caught up with him and literally swallowed him alive. Now it looked like the end for him. Jonah had disobeyed, and this was his punishment. He knew he deserved it and probably thought, "It's over. You might as well lay here and die."

Then, some spark of hope arose inside Jonah. As his life ebbed away (2:7), he prayed to the Lord, and God changed his circumstances. God spoke to the fish, and it took Jonah back to the land and spit him out. Peter thought that he had wrecked his life when he denied even knowing the Lord Jesus three times in one night (Mark 14:72), but the Lord restored him.

I am not saying that sin and running away from God is right. I am saying that with a simple prayer, you can make it right. Sometimes, when we run from God, He will allow us to hit rock bottom. Yet, when we turn to Him, He will help us. It's never too late, for God's love has no limits. He can restore you just as He did with Jonah, Peter, and me.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, please pick me up when I fall. Blow your breath on the fire within me. Help me stand firm on Your word. In the name of Jesus Christ, I pray. Amen!

Note: The FAAD group members (Fight Against Anxiety & Depression) today is"Feel Good Friday!". This event is about lifting up each other up! We all have times when we are weak, but together, we can get through it! We invite you to share anything that may have prompted a good feeling in your heart today. Even if you're having a bad day, perhaps look to encouraging scriptures, prayers or thoughts, and testimonies of God's work. Whether you are suffering from anxiety or depression or just want to help, all are welcome to join!: FAAD Group:

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