God gave Jonah an important job. But Jonah didn't want to do it — so he tried to run away. Can anyone really run away from God?
God's message
God said, “Jonah, go to the big city of Nineveh. Tell the people to turn back to Me.” But Jonah did not want to go. So he ran the other way and got on a boat sailing far, far away.
A big storm
Out on the sea, God sent a wild storm. The wind howled and the waves crashed. The sailors were scared! Jonah knew the storm came because he had run from God.
Into the sea
Jonah told the sailors, “Throw me into the sea, and it will calm down.” So they did — and the sea grew calm and still. But that was not the end of Jonah's story.
A big fish
God was not finished with Jonah. He sent a great big fish that swallowed Jonah whole! Inside the fish, in the dark, Jonah was safe. For three days and nights Jonah prayed and said sorry to God.
A second chance
God heard Jonah's prayer. He told the fish, and it spit Jonah safely onto dry land. Then God said again, “Go to Nineveh.” This time Jonah went! God gave him a second chance.
Nineveh turns to God
Jonah told the city God's message. And do you know what? The whole city listened! They said sorry and turned back to God, and God kindly forgave them. God's love is for everyone.
⚓ The big truth
We can't hide from God — and we don't need to! God is patient and full of love. When we do wrong, we can say sorry, and God gives us a fresh start.
“Salvation belongs to the LORD!”
— Jonah 2:9
Try saying it out loud three times to help it stick!
Talk about it
- Jonah tried to run from God. Why do you think that didn't work?
- God gave Jonah a second chance. Have you ever needed a second chance?
- What does this story teach us about how much God loves people?
Let's pray
Dear God, thank You for being patient with me. When I do wrong, help me say sorry and turn back to You. Thank You for always giving me a fresh start. Amen.
Try this at home
Think of one “sorry” you can say — to God or to someone you love. Then enjoy your fresh start with a big hug or a happy high-five!