Blog
God's Will
Running From God’s Will: Lessons From Jonah’s Story
When we talk about God’s will, it’s easy to picture exciting opportunities—serving as a missionary, helping those in need, or stepping into a new adventure. But what happens when God’s call is something we don’t want to do? What if it challenges us, makes us uncomfortable, or even terrifies us?
The story of Jonah teaches us that God’s will isn’t always about comfort or excitement. Sometimes, it’s about trusting Him even when we’d rather say no. Let’s dive into Jonah’s story to learn what happens when we run from God’s will—and how His grace meets us in our rebellion.
The Call: Jonah’s Challenge From God
The Book of Jonah begins with God giving Jonah a direct command:
“Arise, go to Nineveh, that great city, and call out against it, for their evil has come up before me” (Jonah 1:2).
Nineveh wasn’t just any city—it was a wicked, violent metropolis that had a reputation for brutality. Jonah wasn’t eager to go. In fact, he fled in the opposite direction, boarding a ship to Tarshish, a city as far away from Nineveh as possible.
Why did Jonah run? It’s easy to judge him, but let’s consider the magnitude of God’s call. Imagine being asked to walk into the heart of a hostile city, preaching a message of judgment and repentance to people who might harm you. Jonah wasn’t just reluctant—he was terrified.
Running From God
Jonah’s response to God’s call was to run—literally. He boarded a ship bound for Tarshish, thinking he could escape God’s presence.
“But Jonah rose to flee to Tarshish from the presence of the Lord” (Jonah 1:3).
Jonah’s attempt to flee wasn’t just about avoiding Nineveh. It was about avoiding God’s plan for his life. When faced with difficult calls, don’t we sometimes do the same? We may not board a ship, but we might distract ourselves, procrastinate, or outright ignore God’s voice.
You Can’t Outrun God
While Jonah was at sea, God sent a storm to disrupt his escape. The sailors, fearing for their lives, eventually tossed Jonah overboard at his request.
What happened next is the part of the story we all know—Jonah was swallowed by a great fish.
“And the Lord appointed a great fish to swallow up Jonah. And Jonah was in the belly of the fish three days and three nights” (Jonah 1:17).
This wasn’t punishment; it was grace. The belly of the fish became a place where Jonah couldn’t run anymore. He was forced to stop, reflect, and pray.
The Turning Point: Jonah’s Prayer
In the belly of the fish, Jonah finally turned to God. His prayer in Jonah 2 reveals a heart that was humbled and ready to listen.
“I called out to the Lord, out of my distress, and he answered me” (Jonah 2:2).
Jonah acknowledged God’s power and grace, recognizing that he couldn’t escape God’s presence or calling. His prayer marked the beginning of his surrender to God’s will.
God’s Grace: A Second Chance
After three days, God commanded the fish to spit Jonah out onto dry land. Then, God gave Jonah the same command He had at the beginning:
“Arise, go to Nineveh, that great city, and call out against it the message that I tell you” (Jonah 3:2).
God didn’t change His plan or give up on Jonah. Instead, He offered him a second chance—a testament to His relentless grace.
Jesus: The Greater Jonah
Jonah’s story points us to Jesus, who is the greater Jonah. Where Jonah ran from sinners, Jesus ran toward them. Where Jonah’s sacrifice saved a ship’s crew, Jesus’ sacrifice saves the world.
“Behold, something greater than Jonah is here” (Matthew 12:41).
Jesus embodies obedience, love, and grace. He took the ultimate step of surrender by laying down His life for us, showing us the perfect example of following God’s will.
Application: Lessons From Jonah
Jonah’s story challenges us to reflect on our own lives. Are there areas where we’re running from God’s call? What’s holding us back—fear, doubt, or selfishness?
Here’s what we can learn:
You can’t outrun God’s presence.
He is with you, even in your rebellion.
God’s grace is relentless.
He pursues you with love and offers second chances.
Surrender brings peace.
When we stop running and say yes to God, we experience His joy and purpose.
Conclusion: Will You Say Yes?
Jonah’s story isn’t just about his rebellion—it’s about God’s mercy. Whether you’re running from a call or stuck in a place of doubt, God is inviting you to stop, pray, and surrender. His grace is greater than your fear, and His plans are better than anything you could imagine.
Take a moment today to reflect: What is God calling you to do, and how can you say yes to Him?
