Perspective From the Pit

Jonah finally found the right perspective on life. He began to understand God’s plans and his personal destiny. But this revelation only came when he was completely helpless and vulnerable.

Prior to this point, Jonah had his own ideas, and he’d determined not to obey God’s command to go to Nineveh. But, in the belly of a fish, he realized just how helpless he was in his own strength and wisdom. He was in “distress” and in “the depth of Sheol.” By all rights, he should have been dead.

Yet in “the deep,” in “the heart of the seas” (v. 3), God spoke to him. In a place with no way of escape, he realized he needed God. When he cried out, God gave him clearer perspective. He saw that “those who regard vain idols forsake their faithfulness” (v. 8). He no longer would seek his own way, but was ready to obey God, regardless of the cost. He realized that all of our efforts are futile unless they’re inspired by the Lord and done for His Kingdom. There is no hope or fulfillment apart from Him.

Often God needs to bring us to this point in order to help us turn to Him. We find ourselves in places where we’re forced to seek Him. We then realize how much we need Him, and we become willing to put aside everything else and surrender to Him.

Today, surrender your life anew to God. Don’t run away, but commit your life to serving Him fully and completely, freely and without reservation.