Murmurs of Grace ~ C
Jonah now learns how to bend the knee even in the belly of a monstrous fish.
In my distress I called to the Lord, and He answered me. From the depths of the grave I called for help and You listened to my cry. (Jonah 2:2)
Suffering is not to confront the faithfulness of God but rather to confirm it. When the times are hard men either shake their fists at God or bend the knee to Him. Inside this 'monster fish' Jonah chose the latter. It is so far better to bellow to the Lord when life turns inside-out than never call to Him at all. The Great Assize draws inexorably closer with every breath we take.
When a disciple flees God there is no rest. Jonah very quickly learned disobedience does not bear reward. BUT - when suffering is humbly audited it becomes the host of spiritual thirsts. Jonah cried to Heaven, he has now learned this.
God's grace lives in hardship as well as in ease. Jonah received such grace as he was delivered alive onto dry land.
The Last Word:
"In the resurrection morning we shall thank God for every storm." ~ Bishop Ryle
ENJOY too - Murmurs of Grace ~ A and Murmurs of Grace ~ B