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“Then if my people who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sins and restore their land.” (2 Chronicles 7:14 NLT) I think we can all agree that the United States needs a spiritual awakening. Over the years, God has done a powerful work through the Harvest Crusade—through worship, the preaching of the gospel, and many responding in faith. And we look forward to another crusade this coming July. But our role doesn’t end there. We can also pray for a spiritual awakening. Look at God’s Word in 2 Chronicles 7:14: “Then if my people who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sins and restore their land” (NLT). In the Old Testament book of Jonah, we see what happens when a national spiritual awakening is ignited. When the prophet Jonah went to Nineveh, he delivered a message of judgment, according to God’s instructions. The message was this: If the people of Nineveh didn’t repent of their wickedness, their city would be overthrown in 40 days (see Jonah 3:4). There was no explicit promise of forgiveness in Jonah’s message nor any mention of God’s love. Jonah basically was saying, “You’re all going to die.” And he was okay with that outcome—more than okay, actually. The Ninevites were the despised enemies of Israel. Their wickedness was well-known. Jonah believed that judgment and destruction were exactly what they deserved. But a funny thing happened on the way to judgment. The people of Nineveh listened to Jonah and repented, much to the prophet’s bitter disappointment. Jonah 3:10 says, “When God saw what they had done and how they had put a stop to their evil ways, he changed his mind and did not carry out the destruction he had threatened” (NLT). Nineveh’s turnaround may have been the greatest revival in human history. And it started with a message from a flawed messenger. Like Jonah, we are flawed messengers. But we have a perfect message. It’s the Good News of Jesus Christ. We can tell people that God loves them, that God will forgive them, but that they are separated from Him by their sin. We can tell them that if they will turn from their sin and put their faith in Christ, they can be forgiven. To do that, however, we must be willing to go to our own figurative “Ninevehs.” One mistake many Christians make when it comes to evangelism is “staying in our lane.” We look at the people in our orbit, decide which ones might be receptive to the gospel message, and focus our efforts on that specific group. But as Jonah discovered, genuine, impactful revival comes when we step out of our comfort zone and into situations we never would have imagined possible. If we can’t do that physically, we can do it with our prayers. So, here’s my challenge to you: Don’t isolate. Infiltrate. As I’ve often said, Jesus didn’t call the world to go to church; He called the church to go to the whole world. Reflection question: What would a quest for revival look like in your life? The Harvest Crusade is coming to Angel Stadium on July 11! Stay updated on all important event details. — The audio production of the podcast "Greg Laurie: Daily Devotions" utilizes Generative AI technology. This allows us to deliver consistent, high-quality content while preserving Harvest's mission to "know God and make Him known." All devotional content is written and owned by Pastor Greg Laurie. Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
If you think you have troubles, consider what happened to Jonah when he rebelled against God. Listen to this message to learn the details of the events that occurred when Jonah went to Joppa and got on a ship to Tarsus, including a massive storm that almost drowned all the sailors until they threw Jonah overboard. Learn about the great fish God had prepared that swallowed him and how God preserved him in the fish's belly and returned him to Israel. Like Jonah, every believer has to choose daily if he will obey God's will or run to escape it.
If you think you have troubles, consider what happened to Jonah when he rebelled against God. Listen to this message to learn the details of the events that occurred when Jonah went to Joppa and got on a ship to Tarsus, including a massive storm that almost drowned all the sailors until they threw Jonah overboard. Learn about the great fish God had prepared that swallowed him and how God preserved him in the fish's belly and returned him to Israel. Like Jonah, every believer has to choose daily if he will obey God's will or run to escape it.
Our reading begins as Jesus tells a parable about the seed of a sower. The sower scatters the seed, but it falls onto different types of ground and into varying circumstances. The seed that falls on good soil is fruitful and reproduces, whereas the rest of the seed is not fruitful. The twelve apostles are confused. Jesus explains that his parables are intentionally obscured from those outside, but the kingdom of God is revealed to his followers. Later, as Jesus and his disciples travel by boat, a great windstorm arises on the open sea. Like Jonah, Jesus is asleep, but unlike Jonah, Jesus calms the wind and the waves himself by speaking to nature authoritatively, and the disciples have trouble wrapping their minds around it. :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org
https://wels2.blob.core.windows.net/daily-devotions/20260410dev.mp3 Listen to Devotion Now the LORD provided a huge fish to swallow Jonah, and Jonah was in the belly of the fish three days and three nights. Jonah 1:17 The Lord Provides a Savior It seemed like the end. Jonah had run from the Lord. He boarded a ship going in the opposite direction. When the storm came and the truth was revealed, he was thrown into the sea. The water closed over him. There was no escape. No strength left. No hope of saving himself. But the Lord provided. God appointed a great fish to swallow Jonah. What looked like judgment became rescue. What seemed like certain death became the means of preserving his life. Jonah could not save himself, but the Lord saved him. This account points us to someone greater than Jonah, that is, Jesus Christ. Jesus would not spend portions of three days in a fish, but in the grave. He would sink into death itself, not because he ran from God, but because we have. He took our place. He carried our sin. He faced the punishment we deserved. When Jesus died on the cross and was laid in the tomb, it seemed like hope was lost. But on the third day, Jesus rose from the dead. What looked like defeat was victory. What looked like judgment became salvation. This means your salvation does not depend on your ability to rescue yourself. Like Jonah, you cannot escape sin or overcome death by your own strength. But the Lord has provided. He provided his Son. Jesus entered death and came out alive. His resurrection proves that sin is forgiven. His victory means death is defeated. When you feel overwhelmed by guilt, remember that Jesus has already paid for it. When you feel helpless against death, remember that Jesus has already conquered it. When you feel lost, remember that the Lord has already provided your rescue. Your salvation rests not in what you have done, but in what Jesus has done for you. The Lord provided a fish for Jonah. The Lord provided a Savior for you. Prayer: Lord Jesus, thank you for entering death to rescue me from sin and judgment. Strengthen my faith in your victory and help me trust in your saving love. Amen. Daily Devotions is brought to you by WELS. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License. All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.
https://wels2.blob.core.windows.net/daily-devotions/20260410dev.mp3 Listen to Devotion Now the LORD provided a huge fish to swallow Jonah, and Jonah was in the belly of the fish three days and three nights. Jonah 1:17 The Lord Provides a Savior It seemed like the end. Jonah had run from the Lord. He boarded a ship going in the opposite direction. When the storm came and the truth was revealed, he was thrown into the sea. The water closed over him. There was no escape. No strength left. No hope of saving himself. But the Lord provided. God appointed a great fish to swallow Jonah. What looked like judgment became rescue. What seemed like certain death became the means of preserving his life. Jonah could not save himself, but the Lord saved him. This account points us to someone greater than Jonah, that is, Jesus Christ. Jesus would not spend portions of three days in a fish, but in the grave. He would sink into death itself, not because he ran from God, but because we have. He took our place. He carried our sin. He faced the punishment we deserved. When Jesus died on the cross and was laid in the tomb, it seemed like hope was lost. But on the third day, Jesus rose from the dead. What looked like defeat was victory. What looked like judgment became salvation. This means your salvation does not depend on your ability to rescue yourself. Like Jonah, you cannot escape sin or overcome death by your own strength. But the Lord has provided. He provided his Son. Jesus entered death and came out alive. His resurrection proves that sin is forgiven. His victory means death is defeated. When you feel overwhelmed by guilt, remember that Jesus has already paid for it. When you feel helpless against death, remember that Jesus has already conquered it. When you feel lost, remember that the Lord has already provided your rescue. Your salvation rests not in what you have done, but in what Jesus has done for you. The Lord provided a fish for Jonah. The Lord provided a Savior for you. Prayer: Lord Jesus, thank you for entering death to rescue me from sin and judgment. Strengthen my faith in your victory and help me trust in your saving love. Amen. Daily Devotions is brought to you by WELS. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License. All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.
Word for Today:Ephesians 4:15 NLTInstead, we will speak the truth in love, growing in every way more and more like Christ..Reflection:Are you sharing your faith like Jonah, without love and compassion?
Episode 108 - The 1st part is in English, and the 2nd part is in Malayalam starting 13:50 mark. When sin increases and the wrath of God is imminent, instead of destroying them quickly, God warns through someone. Throughout the Bible we see God speaking through several prophets. The people of Ninevah were not afraid of God, and they immersed in sin. God wanted to save the people of Ninevah from sin and destruction. God chose Jonah to convey the message of repentance and salvation. Jonah's message saved the city and its people. But the character of Jonah is not pleasing to God in many ways. His disobedience and selfishness caused problems to himself and others. My name... Cicilysunny@gmail.com
Like Jonah before him, the prophet Nahum preaches devastation and ruin for Ninevah, the capital of Assyria, a place of unparalleled power and wealth. Though they thought themselves to be secure from danger, their downfall came after nearby rivers flooded the city and destroyed part of the city wall, allowing Babylon to enter easily and set it ablaze. Later in Habakkuk, the prophet of the same name is recorded speaking to the Lord on behalf of his people. He openly and honestly struggles with understanding why God would allow injustice to prevail. By his conversation with the Lord, we are reminded of the sovereign power and authority of God, who calls the righteous to live by faith.Nahum 1 - 1:15 . Nahum 2 - 4:27 . Nahum 3 - 7:20 . Habakkuk 1 - 12:54 . Habakkuk 2 - 16:20 . Habakkuk 3 - 20:55 . Psalm 149 - 25:02 . :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org
# Understanding Jonah: A Lesson in Grace and Obedience In our ongoing series, **Books of the Book**, we turn our attention to the story of Jonah, a narrative often misunderstood and sometimes dismissed due to its miraculous elements. This week, we delve into the Book of Jonah to uncover its deeper messages about grace, obedience, and the miraculous nature of faith. ## The Miracle of Jonah The story of Jonah is not just about a man being swallowed by a large fish; it is a profound narrative about God's grace and the lengths He will go to reach people. **Jonah 1:1-3** introduces us to Jonah, a prophet who receives a divine command to preach to Nineveh, a city notorious for its wickedness. Instead of obeying, Jonah flees, highlighting his reluctance to extend God's grace to his enemies. ## The Struggle with Miracles The miraculous element of Jonah being swallowed by a fish often overshadows the story's true message. The narrative challenges us to examine our belief in miracles. If we believe in the resurrection of Jesus, as central to our faith, then the miraculous nature of Jonah's story becomes plausible. The real question is whether we believe in a God who can do the impossible, including transforming hearts and extending grace where it seems undeserved. ## Jonah's Reluctance and God's Grace Jonah's journey is marked by his struggle with God's command. His reluctance stems from his hatred for the Ninevites, who were known for their brutality. Despite his disobedience, God's grace is evident as He orchestrates events to bring Jonah back to His purpose. The storm and the fish are not just miraculous interventions but also symbols of God's relentless pursuit of His prophet. ## The Power of Repentance Upon Jonah's eventual obedience, **Jonah 3:1-5** describes how the Ninevites, from the king to the common people, respond to Jonah's message with genuine repentance. This transformation is a testament to the power of God's word and His willingness to forgive. The story reminds us that no one is beyond the reach of God's grace. ## Lessons from Jonah's Anger In **Jonah 4:1-3**, we see Jonah's anger at God's mercy towards Nineveh. This reaction reveals a common human struggle: the desire for justice over mercy. Jonah's story challenges us to reflect on our own attitudes towards those we consider undeserving of grace. It calls us to embrace God's perspective, which values every soul and offers second chances freely. ## Embracing Our Call The story of Jonah is a call to action for believers. Like Jonah, we are tasked with sharing the truth of God's love and grace. We must overcome our reluctance and doubts, trusting in God's power to change hearts. Our role is to shine our light and proclaim the message of salvation, leaving the transformation to God. In conclusion, Jonah's story is a powerful reminder of God's boundless grace and our responsibility as His messengers. It encourages us to trust in the miraculous, embrace our calling, and extend grace to all, just as it has been extended to us.
Jonah 4:5-11 - This message reminds us that God's grace is often scandalous to us because He gives it freely to those we think are undeserving — including us. Like Jonah, we can become angry when God's mercy doesn't align with our sense of justice or comfort. God lovingly appoints both blessings and hardships to shape our hearts toward His mission: to show grace to a broken world.
Jonah 4:5-11 - This message reminds us that God's grace is often scandalous to us because He gives it freely to those we think are undeserving — including us. Like Jonah, we can become angry when God's mercy doesn't align with our sense of justice or comfort. God lovingly appoints both blessings and hardships to shape our hearts toward His mission: to show grace to a broken world.
Have you ever felt swallowed up by your own choices? Like Jonah in the belly of the great fish, we often find ourselves trapped in the consequences of running from God's call. Through vivid imagery of storms and desperate sailors, Pastor Phil Ayres powerfully illustrates how our disobedience affects not just us, but everyone in our wake. Drawing a masterful parallel between Jonah's three days in the fish and Christ's resurrection, this message reveals how God's grace reaches into our darkest places. Whether you're wrestling with addiction, broken relationships, or simply feeling lost, discover how God's rescue plan unfolds—even in our opposition. Don't miss this transformative message about second chances and God's relentless pursuit of your heart.
Like Jonah before him, the prophet Nahum preaches devastation and ruin for Ninevah, only this time Ninevah doesn't repent. Ninevah was the capital of Assyria, a nation of unparalleled power and wealth which had recently decimated the nation of Israel. Though they thought themselves to be secure from danger, their downfall came after nearby rivers flooded the city and destroyed part of the city wall, allowing Babylon to enter easily and set it ablaze. Later, we're introduced to King Josiah, who is one of Judah's most notable kings, as he rediscovers the book of the law and mourns that God's wrath is surely coming upon them. Nahum 1 - 1:06 . Nahum 2 - 4:29 . Nahum 3 - 8:09 . 2 Kings 22 - 12:30 . Proverbs 4 - 17:05 . :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Bible.facebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org
Jonah's story reminds us that God's interruptions are really His invitations to significance. Like Jonah, we often run from God's call, but His grace relentlessly pursues us and draws us back. Even in our storms and failures, He can redeem our choices and use them for eternal impact. The question is, will we keep running, or will we say yes to His call?
Pastor Scotty finishes up his series looking at life when emotions are overwhelming.
Pastor Scotty continues this series with a message about the God of Second Chances.
Jonah has already run away from God's purpose once, but that isn't the end of his story or of God's calling on his life. Like Jonah, we may not always like the places and people to which God commissions us to go, but Jesus' Great Commission to go to all peoples and nations - even the 'Ninevahs' of our time - is in full effect. Despite Jonah's reluctance, the people of Nineveh listen to God and repent, humbling themselves before Him, wearing sackcloth as an outward sign of their repentance. Jesus, our Greater Jonah, humbled Himself even to a death on a cross, and because of His sacrifice we can now be clothed in the new garments He provides, garments of praise, of salvation, and of righteousness. He knows just how to 'overthrow' our hearts, to lead us through humble repentance His new life.
Pastor Kristen continues this new series out of the book of Jonah.
Pastor Scotty begins a new series on the book of Jonah with a message about running from God and his calling on your life.
Send us a textWhat happens when a hardened drug addict and dealer finally stops running from God? This extraordinary redemption story takes us from the depths of addiction to the founding of a transformative ministry.Growing up in the "free-range parenting" era of the 90s, our guest began accumulating felonies by age 17, eventually spiraling into intravenous drug use and manufacturing methamphetamine. Through raw, unflinching honesty, he reveals how his addiction destroyed not only his own life but impacted others—particularly introducing his future wife to intravenous drug use, a shame he carried for years.The turning point arrives in an unexpected spiritual encounter at age 22, when after flushing methamphetamine down the toilet, he experiences what he describes as a divine visitation—complete with overwhelming emotion, tears, and a vision of Jesus. Yet remarkably, even this powerful moment wasn't enough to immediately transform him. "Like Jonah," he explains, "you can't run from the Lord... He's going to hawk us down."True transformation finally takes root during incarceration for drug manufacturing at age 24, though full surrender to faith wouldn't come until age 30. This journey leads to the founding of Freedom Lighthouse in Waveland, Mississippi—a free rehabilitation ministry focusing on the critical "second phase" of recovery when individuals must maintain sobriety while facing real-world temptations.Perhaps most compelling is his revelation about healing: "The world told me my brain needed healing, and I finally found out it was my heart that needed healing and my brain would follow my heart." This profound insight forms the foundation of his approach to recovery, which has led to countless transformed lives.Want to learn more about Freedom Lighthouse or find help for yourself or a loved one battling addiction? Visit freedom-lighthouse.com and discover how spiritual transformation can break the chains of even the most desperate addiction.Support the showIf you would like to be a guest and share your story, click this link: https://thepromoter.org/story/ Thanks for Listening, and subscribe to hear a new episode each week!
What if the very thing that feels like your doom is actually God's rescue plan in disguise? Dive into the fascinating paradox of Jonah's experience—swallowed by a massive fish that became his unlikely salvation when he was drowning in the depths of the sea.We unpack how Jonah's journey mirrors our own struggles when we find ourselves in circumstances we never would have chosen. That promotion you didn't get, the relationship that fell apart, the health crisis you're facing—these unwanted "fish bellies" might actually be where God is protecting you, reshaping your heart, and preparing you for something greater.The power of this story lies in Jonah's transformation from running away to praying honestly. We explore how to turn your anxious internal dialogue into powerful conversations with God. No need for polished, religious-sounding prayers—just raw honesty about what's really happening in your life. As one spiritual leader wisely put it, sometimes the most effective prayer is simply: "Help, God, I need help."Perhaps most striking is how Jonah praised God before seeing his deliverance. With "shouts of grateful praise," he declared God's salvation while still surrounded by fish guts and darkness. This is verse 9 faith—the kind that worships before the breakthrough comes, that believes when there's no evidence yet visible.The story's messy ending—Jonah vomited onto dry land—reminds us that salvation itself isn't always neat and tidy. Like Jonah's experience foreshadowing Christ's three days in the tomb, our darkest moments can become powerful testimonies of God's perfect timing and unfailing grace. Whatever "fish" has swallowed you today, remember: when it's not God's time, you can't force it, and when it is God's time, you can't stop it.Support the showMade a decision to follow Jesus? We want to know about it! Fill out our connect card here: https://local.churchcenter.com/people/forms/115766Thank you for your generosity. For information on how to give, visit https://localvineyard.church/give.
Little Willy Plays in Duty. In this episode, we read Steven Paulson's Outlaw God, discussing the appeal of the Law (in the abstract), why old Adam loves pretending he has free will, the Ninevite Conundrum, Jonah's wormy preacher, and our obsession with placing therapy alongside Christ as a means of grace. SHOW NOTES: Steven Paulson - Outlaw God https://amzn.to/4kHmP8s Outlaw God Podcast https://www.1517.org/podcasts/outlawgod Saturday Seminar: The Impossible Prize: Addiction, Grace and the Unfree Will https://www.1517.org/events/riley-stjohn-25 More from 1517: Support 1517 Podcast Network: https://www.1517.org/donate-podcasts 1517 Podcasts: http://www.1517.org/podcasts 1517 on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@1517org 1517 Podcast Network on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/channel/1517-podcast-network/id6442751370 1517 Events Schedule: https://www.1517.org/events 1517 Academy - Free Theological Education: https://academy.1517.org/ What's New from 1517: Preorder Sinner Saint by By Luke Kjolhaug: https://shop.1517.org/products/9781964419152-sinner-saint The Impossible Prize: A Theology of Addiction by Donavan Riley: https://shop.1517.org/products/9781962654708-the-impossible-prize Ditching the Checklist by Mark Mattes: https://shop.1517.org/products/9781962654791-ditching-the-checklist Broken Bonds: A Novel of the Reformation, Book 1 of 2 by Amy Mantravadi: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1962654753?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_dp_FCNEEK60MVNVPCEGKBD8_5&starsLeft=1 More from the hosts: Donovan Riley https://www.1517.org/contributors/donavon-riley Christopher Gillespie https://www.1517.org/contributors/christopher-gillespie MORE LINKS: Tin Foil Haloes https://t.me/bannedpastors Warrior Priest Gym & Podcast https://thewarriorpriestpodcast.wordpress.com St John's Lutheran Church (Webster, MN) - FB Live Bible Study Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/356667039608511 Donavon's Substack https://donavonlriley.substack.com Gillespie's Substack https://substack.com/@christophergillespie Gillespie's Sermons and Catechesis http://youtube.com/stjohnrandomlake Gillespie Coffee https://gillespie.coffee Gillespie Media https://gillespie.media CONTACT and FOLLOW: Email mailto:BannedBooks@1517.org Facebook https://www.facebook.com/BannedBooksPod/ Twitter https://twitter.com/bannedbooks1517 SUBSCRIBE: YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@BannedBooks Rumble https://rumble.com/c/c-1223313 Odysee https://odysee.com/@bannedbooks:5 Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/banned-books/id1370993639 Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/2ahA20sZMpBxg9vgiRVQba Overcast https://overcast.fm/itunes1370993639/banned-books
Have you ever felt like a person or a people group deserve punishment, but you don't? There was a man in scripture like that. His name was Jonah, and he lacked mercy but expected to receive it. Are we like Jonah? Sometimes I think we're more like the bad actors in the Bible than the good ones. A careful study of the book of Jonah reveals several common problems. It's easy to point out Jonah's faults, but he really was a lot like us. We want people to forgive us when we're wrong, but we may not be so willing to show them the same kind of mercy. Let's study four lessons from the book of Jonah. Book Club Selections in the Shop Apply: Living What We Learn--31-Day Devotional by Francie Taylor Herbs for the Heart: A Study of James by Kathy Ashley From Overwhelmed to Overcomer by Natalie Raynes Blanton Vitamins for the Soul: A Study on Maintaining Spiritual Health by Kathy Ashley Ponder the Path: A 31-Day Devotional by Francie Taylor Rough Patches: Temporary Marital Tensions by Francie Taylor Follow Keep the Heart on Instagram Like Keep the Heart on Facebook
Jonah 4 isn't the ending we expect. It's the mirror we might not want. After Nineveh repents and God relents, Jonah burns with anger instead of rejoicing. Why? Because God's mercy revealed something buried deep in Jonah: bitterness, entitlement, and a heart misaligned with God's mercy.Jonah confronts us with uncomfortable questions: Do we get angry when grace is given to people we don't think deserve it? Do we sulk when God seems generous to others but silent with us? Jonah knew God's character, but he didn't like it when that character didn't serve his will.The book of Jonah ends unresolved. The final word is a question, not a conclusion. Like Jonah, will we resist grace, or like Jesus, will we rejoice in it?Key Themes:· The Heart Exposed: Jonah is more upset about a plant than 120,000 people perishing. (Jonah 4:5–11)· When Grace Offends: Jonah flees because he knows God is merciful and doesn't want mercy for his enemies. (Jonah 4:2)· Bitterness vs. Compassion: God challenges Jonah's hard heart, inviting him to see people through His eyes. (Jonah 4:10-11)· The Book That Reads You: Jonah's story ends unresolved to draw us in. Will we receive God's mercy, and share it?Reflection:We are all Jonah. We run when we should rise. We get angry when God is generous. And yet God pursues us still. Through storms, plants, and painful questions, He is not trying to destroy us but to save us from ourselves. This is a story not just to read, but to enter. Will you let God finish it in you?Key Texts:· Jonah 4· Exodus 34:6–7· Luke 15:11–32· Matthew 5:43–48· Proverbs 25:15· Romans 5:8Support our mission:Your generosity helps us proclaim Christ as King and equip disciples to make disciples.alloflife.churchcenter.com/givingVisit our website:www.alloflife.church
The soundtrack that plays in Trapper's head has been uncomfortable. God seems to be revealing His opinion on a topic Trapper would rather not discuss. ---------- Hi! Trapper Jack here. I've heard a bazillion opinions out there on the papacy of Pope Francis, and what is about to come with Pope Leo. In this episode, we might have the opinion of the only One that matters. It's time to finally crawl out of the belly of the whale—seaweed hairdo and all. Like Jonah, I tried to outrun a message God wanted delivered. I figured if I stayed vague enough, maybe no one would throw me overboard. Spoiler: they did. From lightning strikes and Pachamama to a certain musical that wouldn't leave my head, is it possible that God wants to give you His thoughts on what has ended, and what has begun? The signs are everywhere. Sometimes, the prophet needs a push… or a whale. ---------- Join us on our pilgrimage to Medjugorje. It's nearly sold out so don't delay. Click the link: https://www.ctscentral.net/travel-tours/60th-anniversary-pilgrimage-to-medugorje ---------- Share Your Story If you have a Touched by Heaven moment that you would like to share with Trapper, please leave us a note at https://touchedbyheaven.net/contact Our listeners look forward to hearing about life-changing encounters and miraculous stories every week. Stay Informed Trapper sends out a weekly email. If you're not receiving it, and would like to stay in touch to get the bonus stories and other interesting content that will further fortify your faith. Join our email family by subscribing on https://trapperjackspeaks.com Become a Patron We pray that our listeners and followers benefit from our podcasts and programs and develop a deeper personal relationship with God. We thank you for your prayers and for supporting our efforts by helping to cover the costs. Become a Patron and getting lots of fun extras. Please go to https://patreon.com/bfl to check out the details. More About Trapper Jack Visit Our Website: https://TrapperJackSpeaks.com Patreon Donation Link: https://www.patreon.com/bfl Purchase our Products · Talk Downloads: https://www.patreon.com/bfl/shop · CD Sales: Send inquiries to: info@blindguymedia.com Join us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TouchedByHeaven.TrapperJack Follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trapperjack/ Join us on X/Twitter: https://x.com/TrapperJack1
Our reading begins as Jesus tells a parable about the seed of a sower. The sower scatters the seed, but it falls onto different types of ground and into varying circumstances. The seed that falls on good soil is fruitful and reproduces, whereas the rest of the seed is not fruitful. The twelve apostles are confused. Jesus explains that his parables are intentionally obscured from those outside, but the kingdom of God is revealed to his followers. Later, as Jesus and his disciples travel by boat, a great windstorm arises on the open sea. Like Jonah, Jesus is asleep, but unlike Jonah, Jesus calms the wind and the waves himself by speaking to nature authoritatively, and the disciples have trouble wrapping their minds around it. :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org
We often see biblical people and their stories and don't think we can relate. We see their bad decisions, their sins, and [maybe don't want to admit it out loud] that we wouldn't have made that decision. As we begin to look at Jonah, I think we are more like him than we think and that's what this podcast will discuss.
Women of Faith in Leadership - Kingdom Leadership, Workplace Organisational culture, Christian women
We're continuing our series on the bible's most reluctant leaders. This week, we are looking at Jonah. Jonah ran away from God when God called him. He was reluctant and didn't want to do it. But Jonah had to learn the hard way. He had to go through stormy seas and be swallowed by a huge fish, for Him to realise that he can't run away from God's call. However, God was gracious, as always, and the fish spat Jonah out and he made his way to the town of Ninevah, where he had to tell the people to repent. Lessons from Jonah's story: Running from God's Call Brings Storms God's Grace Finds Us Even in Our Lowest Moments. Obedience is more important then our own comfort zones Let's reflect: Where are you resisting God's call? Is there something He's asking you to do that you've been avoiding? How is your disobedience affecting those around you? Like Jonah's storm, are your actions creating unnecessary struggles? Are you willing to say ‘yes' to God, even when it's uncomfortable? Take Action: Identify an area where you've been resisting God's leading. Pray and ask for courage to take a step forward. Surrender your fears and trust that God's plans are greater than your own. Take one obedient step this week—whether it's having a hard conversation, stepping into a leadership role, or simply saying ‘yes' to what God is asking. Confidence Coaching for Female Christian Leaders It's time to break free from self-doubt so you can lead with confidence! Learn how to identify the root of your doubts (Luke 24:38); renew your mind with biblical truth (Romans 12:2) and develop faith-filled strategies to lead boldly while trusting God (Matthew 21:21). You'll finally be able to lead with confidence, fully trusting that God had called you and equipped you for this role. Book your confidence coaching session Have a listener question? Submit it at https://www.womenoffaithinleadership.com Next steps: 1. Navigate to https://www.womenoffaithinleadership.com where you can: Join the community of like-minded female Christian leaders. This is where I will be hanging out if I'm not on the podcast chatting to you all. Come share and support each other here. Subscribe to my newsletter so you can stay up to date with all upcoming episodes and any other exclusive or special offers. 2. Book your Confidence Coaching session: https://tidycal.com/rikawhelan/coachingcall 3. Connect with me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rikawhelan
Sermon Summary:In the final message of our "Unstuck" series, we examined Step 12: "Having had a spiritual awakening as a result of these steps, we sought to carry this message to others and to practice these principles in all of our affairs." This step poses a profound question for all of us: What message are we carrying? Whether intentionally or not, we're all carrying some message through our words, actions, and priorities.The concept of carrying a message originated with Jesus himself, who commissioned his followers to share the good news of God's kingdom. But why should we carry this message? The answer comes from Bill W., co-founder of Alcoholics Anonymous, who discovered that sharing his story with another alcoholic wasn't just about helping the other person—it was essential for his own survival. This reveals a powerful truth: there is no healing without helping. When we focus outward instead of inward, we find purpose beyond ourselves.Despite this, we often resist carrying the message. Like Jonah, we run from our calling, gripped by what psychologist Abraham Maslow called the "Jonah Complex"—the tendency to flee from our greatest potential. To overcome this, we offered two simple actions: talk to people about God's love and serve people with God's love.When it comes to talking about God, we often feel inadequate or afraid. But remember Jonah's sermon to Nineveh—just eight words that changed an entire city. God works in the space between our words and others' hearts. And our fears? Usually, they're not about persecution but awkwardness. In America, we won't be fed to lions for sharing our faith—we might just experience a moment of discomfort.By serving others with no strings attached, we demonstrate God's love in tangible ways that bypass people's defenses. Like Sam Shoemaker, who welcomed recovering alcoholics into his church, we're called to "stay near the door"—close enough to God to know Him, but close enough to others to help them find the door too. Our healing isn't complete until we're helping others find healing.
How can you get in alignment with God's assignment for your life? Join us for “Run to Win: Part 3” of a 7-week journey through the stories of God's greatest messengers. Dive into the story of Jonah, a man who tried to run away and hide from God's calling on his life. Like Jonah, have you ever tried to run from God's calling? Through Jonah's story, we learn that when God calls, the best thing we can do is surrender to His perfect will. #rethinklifechurch #TheWinningFamily #RunToWin #GoodNews #Jonah #Bible #godsword #godisgood #lakenona #stcloud #orlando #2025sermon #onlinechurch #rodneygage #michellegage #Jesus #Church #Hope #HolySpirit #learnhow #pastor #sermon #inspiringmessages Thank you RTL Fam for your generosity! To support our growth and global impact click here: https://www.rethinklife.com/give ReThink Life is a church committed to helping people know God, grow stronger, discover purpose, and make an impact located in Orlando, Florida. Check out www.rethinklife.com for more information & to get connected. Follow us on social media at @rethinklifechurch
Jonah ran from God, blaming others for his anger. But God exposed his heart problem—idolatry of power and control. Like Jonah, we must confess, repent, and surrender to God's transforming grace.
This week, Pastor Joie Miller preaches from The Book of Jonah, a biblical showcase of the consequences of pursuing what we want to do versus what we are called to do. After God instructed Jonah to go to Nineveh, Jonah fled from the seaport at Joppa instead. While Jonah tried to use his feelings towards the Ninevites to justify his actions, God had called him to go because he wanted him to grow. This year, reflect on the Joppas you're justifying. Like Jonah, God will take you through to get you to.
This week, Pastor Joie Miller preaches from The Book of Jonah, a biblical showcase of the consequences of pursuing what we want to do versus what we are called to do. After God instructed Jonah to go to Nineveh, Jonah fled from the seaport at Joppa instead. While Jonah tried to use his feelings towards the Ninevites to justify his actions, God had called him to go because he wanted him to grow. This year, reflect on the Joppas you're justifying. Like Jonah, God will take you through to get you to.
God will come to us even in our darkest hour and make a way back to him. Like Jonah in the belly of the whale, even when we hit rock bottom in our disobedience and anger, God still pursues and rescues us.
Like Jonah before him, the prophet Nahum preaches devastation and ruin for Ninevah, the capital of Assyria, a place of unparalleled power and wealth. Though they thought themselves to be secure from danger, their downfall came after nearby rivers flooded the city and destroyed part of the city wall, allowing Babylon to enter easily and set it ablaze. Later in Habakkuk, the prophet of the same name is recorded speaking to the Lord on behalf of his people. He openly and honestly struggles with understanding why God would allow injustice to prevail. By his conversation with the Lord, we are reminded of the sovereign power and authority of God, who calls the righteous to live by faith.Nahum 1 - 1:15 . Nahum 2 - 4:27 . Nahum 3 - 7:20 . Habakkuk 1 - 12:54 . Habakkuk 2 - 16:20 . Habakkuk 3 - 20:55 . Psalm 149 - 25:02 . :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org
Seeing our pain through from a new perspective—that we are just as broken as everyone else. To err is natural, to forgive is supernatural. Discover the miracle of forgiveness. Stop drinking the poison of bitterness and expecting your offenders to die. And along the way learn to forgive yourself, because you too are forgiven.QUESTIONS FOR THE ROAD1. Think about a time where you hurt someone, and then received forgiveness from them. What how did that make you feel?2. Think of a hurt you are trying to forgive. Filter that hurt through the REACH Process of Forgiveness: Recall the Hurt, Empathize with your Offender, Altruistic Gift, Commit and Hold on to Forgiveness.
Jonah is frustrated with the character of God. He receives but does not distribute God's grace and mercy.
Rick and Svea close out Jonah talking about traps, windows and mirrors, God's judgement in the Old Testament, and how we can apply the themes of Jonah to life after elections (this episode was recorded on Election Day, 2024). Ultimately, it boils down to this week's sermon topic: Unrelenting Grace.Topics discussed in this Episode:00:00 Intro01:22 Election Day banter.02:46 A pastoral encouragement about election anxiety.05:09 Keep looking up - keep your eyes fixed on God.07:06 The early Church.09:53 Like Jonah, we all have traps we fall into when we find our security, significance, or satisfaction in something other than Jesus.11:21 Do we see Jonah as a window or as a mirror? Perhaps the book is a window and the man is a mirror.13:25 What do we fixate on when an idol is being messed with? For Rick it's organizing shoes, for Svea it's organizing closets. Instead, what needs to happen is to get honest with God and tell him how we're feeling.18:17 What about...judgement in the Old Testament.21:19 Jonah doesn't want God to be good toward other people, only to his people.22:37 What can we apply from Jonah as we move into the weeks and months following the elections?27:40 Jonah doesn't have a completely satisfying ending. There's no closure. But that's part of its genius.30:45 A prayer.
Faith Baptist Church in Hamilton, NJ. Pastor Lance Walker is the Senior Pastor. Visit us at www.fbcchurch.org
Like Jonah before him, the prophet Nahum preaches devastation and ruin for Ninevah, only this time Ninevah doesn't repent. Ninevah was the capital of Assyria, a nation of unparalleled power and wealth which had recently decimated the nation of Israel. Though they thought themselves to be secure from danger, their downfall came after nearby rivers flooded the city and destroyed part of the city wall, allowing Babylon to enter easily and set it ablaze. Later, we're introduced to King Josiah, who is one of Judah's most notable kings, as he rediscovers the book of the law and mourns that God's wrath is surely coming upon them. Nahum 1 - 1:06 . Nahum 2 - 4:29 . Nahum 3 - 8:09 . 2 Kings 22 - 12:30 . Proverbs 4 - 17:05 . :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Bible.facebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org
Our very own Brian Knapp shares a message about Jonah and asks us some important questions about our own faithfulness.
Mark 5:19 says, "Go home to your friends and tell them how much the Lord has done for you, and how He has had mercy on you." The expression "go home to your friends" comes from one Greek word, oikos. Let's go public with our faith by taking Jesus to our world, our oikos.
Speaker: Michael Field Scripture: Jonah Original Date: 5/16/24 ----- About Calvary YA: Our desire is that young adults would know God and the power of Jesus' death, burial, and resurrection. We want to be people who live and love like Jesus, people who love God more and more, and people who see His grace and truth fill us to the point of overflowing into the world around us.
Our reading begins as Jesus tells a parable about the seed of a sower. The sower scatters the seed, but it falls onto different types of ground and into varying circumstances. The seed that falls on good soil is fruitful and reproduces, whereas the rest of the seed is not fruitful. The twelve apostles are confused. Jesus explains that his parables are intentionally obscured from those outside, but the kingdom of God is revealed to his followers. Later, as Jesus and his disciples travel by boat, a great windstorm arises on the open sea. Like Jonah, Jesus is asleep, but unlike Jonah, Jesus calms the wind and the waves himself by speaking to nature authoritatively, and the disciples have trouble wrapping their minds around it. :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org
Jump start your week with a Jump Start REWIND, read by Roger Shouse.
Like Jonah before the people of Nineveh, Jesus calls the people (including us!) to repent. February 21, 2024 - Cathedral Rectory - Superior, WI Fr. Andrew Ricci - www.studyprayserve.com
Learn what distinguishes Jonah from all the other prophets.Here's How:Write a few sentences about a time you hurt someone. Before, during, and after you hurt the person what did you feel, think, see and do?Ask God to help you have empathy for those who hurt you by remembering that you have also hurt others. Join us in San Jose for our first-ever Become New in-person gathering. 7pm on November 4th. The venue will be shared ONLY with those who RSVP.RSVP for the LIVE event here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/become-new-gathering-tickets-687547161067?aff=YTJoin in community. Comment below! And sure to tap the bell icon