Some find this hard to swallow.

Rebellious Jonah, running away from Almighty God, would rather die than do what God had called him to do.

The sailors knew that Jonah was the cause of the fierce Mediterranean storm. A decision is made to throw him overboard.

With Jonah gone they rowed hard to return to safety. They tried to pull themselves out of this danger, but they could not.

When their efforts failed they cried out to God, and called upon God.

As soon as they dispatched Jonah, and prayed, the waters became calm.

They became very religious in their hour of danger and need. Many do.

Jonah is on the point of death, but God is not finished with him.

God provided a great fish to swallow Jonah and for three days and three nights Jonah is in the belly of that sea creature, and from there he prayed.

God made this happen at just the right moment. It was deliberate on the part of God. God does not wipe out all rebels immediately.

Was Jonah glad to be rescued from the waves, although perhaps not in the way he would have wished?

As he prays there is no request about how he might get out of the tomb. He pours out his heart in praise and thanksgiving.

He seems to have no concern about his future, if he is to have a future.

He prays phrases from the Psalms. Jonah knew his Bible and he had stored up God's Word in his heart. It was so needed at such a desperate hour.

The Word of God reassured Jonah that he was in God's hands.

Many have found that to be comforting, when imprisoned for their faith in Jesus Christ, and removed from their families.

Make the effort to get into the Word of God. Decide and determine to be reading part of the Bible every day. It has been my pattern now for many years to read around three passages of Scripture each day and normally I do so in the morning. that is the best time for me, but the time of day is not all that important. Just make sure you are feeding upon the Word of God and allow God to speak to you through His holy Word, strengthening and encouraging and nourishing you in so many various areas.

We have to be very practical too. We feed upon the Word of God so that we may serve people around us.

Are you familiar with what is going on amongst those who are being persecuted for their faith in Jesus Christ today?

Get to know the fact and support the genuine agencies and organizations which God has raised up to minister to those who are enduring sever and sore suffering.

We have been connected with Open Doors led by that faithful man, Brother Andrew who has served in the front line for many years.

His book, "God's Smuggler", released this year after 60 years of serving in such exciting and at time dangerous situations, is an inspirational read.

If you have never read it, and you need a word that will inspire you, get hold of a copy and let it motivate and encourage.

There are some people in the Church of Jesus Christ who will just not give up nor give in.

Be such a person.

If I can help in any way do get in touch through the excellent contact facilities provided by this website.