Is Something Smelling FISHY?

God wants you to live every day in ways that please Him.
Jonah
Deuteronomy 30:20

What’s your favorite food? Do you think Jonah enjoyed eating fish after being in the belly of the fish? What do you think Jonah thought about each time he smelled fish?

• Jonah’s name meant “dove.” He was a prophet to Israel during the time of Jeroboam II (793-753 BC).

• Notice the message God gave Jonah to deliver to the Israelites (2 Kings 14:25). God allowed Jonah the privilege of telling the Israelites they would experience safety and prosperity.

• Notice the message God gave Jonah to deliver to the Ninevites (Jonah 1:2). God wanted the Ninevites to know He would destroy them because of their wickedness.

• The story of Jonah is not only about a man who decided not to obey God; it is about the loving, caring protection of God. Compare your life to that of Jonah’s. What has God called you to do? Are you faithfully fulfilling the calling God placed on your life? In what ways has God gotten your attention and taught you to obey Him? How has God provided for you during your “pity party” or “Woe is me!” attitudes?

Can they look at your life and see someone who does exactly what God tells you to do? Are you living in ways that please God? Remember—Jonah is remembered more for his disobedience than obedience. How do you want to be remembered?