Jonah and the Big Fish
Jonah and the Big Fish
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“In my distress I called to the Lord, and he answered me.”
— Jonah 2:2 (NIV)
God had a job for a man named Jonah. “Go to the big city of Nineveh,” God said, “and tell the people to stop being mean and start being good.”
But Jonah did not want to go. So he ran the other way! He got on a boat sailing far, far away from Nineveh, trying to hide from God.
Out on the sea, a big storm came. The wind blew and the waves splashed. Jonah knew the storm was because he had run away. “Put me in the water,” he told the sailors, “and the sea will be calm.” So they did — and the sea grew quiet.
Then God sent a great big fish, and the fish opened its mouth and swallowed Jonah up. Jonah was safe inside the big fish. It was dark, but God was right there with him.
Inside the fish, Jonah prayed. “I’m sorry, God. Thank You for saving me.” After three days, the big fish brought Jonah back to dry land and gently let him go.
God said again, “Go to Nineveh.” This time Jonah went! He told the people God’s message, and they listened and chose to be good. God loved them, and He gave Jonah a second chance.
The Big Idea
Jonah learned it’s always best to obey God. And even when we make a mistake, God loves us and gives us a second chance.
Reflect & Discuss
- 1.Why did Jonah run away from God?
- 2.How do you think Jonah felt when he prayed inside the big fish?
- 3.What is something God wants you to obey, even when it feels hard?
A Prayer
Dear God, thank You for always loving me, even when I make mistakes. Help me to obey You and to be kind to others. Thank You for giving second chances. Amen.
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