Today's continuation of Journeying with Jonah was not without its dramas. Much like the dramatic literary style of Jonah, the sermon itself was full of 'unplanned' humourous events (especially at the whale's expense!)Jonah’s prayer in chapter 2 has all the elements of a sincere confession. Jonah admits his fault and claims God’s forgiveness. But it doesn’t end there! Jonah does something very beautiful, which prompted God, in His great mercy and grace, to command the fish to vomit him up and save him. Jonah made a personal promise to God.
Verse 9 reads ~ ”But I, with a song of thanksgiving, will sacrifice to you. What I have vowed I will make good. Salvation comes from the LORD."
Jonah finally recognizes his true ‘Resource’ ~ Salvation comes from the LORD. This prayer of confession changed Jonah’s destination from the DETRIMENT OF DISOBEDIENCE to the OBLATION OF OBEDIENCE.
Words of Retired General John Gowans (song 378) sum up well Jonah's experience.
Out of my darkness God called me,
Out of the depth of my night,
Out of the shadows of sorrow,
Into the life of his light.
Out of my darkness he called me,
Out of my doubt, my despair,
Out of the wastes of my winter,
Into the spring of his care.
Out of my darkness he called me
Into his sun-shining day,
Out of my gloom to his glory;
What could I do but obey?
...and then go on to leave us with a personal reminder of our own.
When you find yourself in moments of despair, look up to God for salvation from your situation and promise Him your devotion. “When you hit rock bottom, look up!”
Better yet, try trusting God without reserve and live in the confidence of His intimate intervention, everyday!
Out of your darkness he calls you,
Out of your doubt, your despair,
Out of the wastes of your winter,
Into the spring of his care.
