God, tell me a story about…animals

Jonah and the Big Fish

Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails.
Proverbs 19:21

Read Jonah 1-3

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1 – In the past couple weeks we’ve seen that God sometimes asks us to do things that are unpopular, difficult, scary. He asked Noah to build a boat in the desert. Daniel obeyed God instead of the king, even though he knew it meant he would be thrown into the lion’s den. In today’s story, God asks Jonah to go to Nineveh, a city filled with wickedness. How did Jonah respond to God?

2 – Jonah said no to God. Why do you think he said no? Have you ever said no to God? Why?

3 – How did God respond when Jonah tried to get away? Why do you think God sent the storm? What happens to make the storm stop?

4 – God does many things to remind us that He is in control, that He wants us to obey, and that He loves us. What does God do next to remind Jonah of all these things? (verse 17)

5 – How do you think Jonah felt inside the belly of the fish? How would you feel if you were trapped somewhere dark and smelly? What does Jonah do next? What do you do when you’re scared? Why?

6- How many days was Jonah in the belly of the fish? Have you seen that number before in the bible? Someone very famous was also in the dark, in a sense, for three days, who was it?

7 – Even though Jonah disobeyed God, God did not forget about him. God was in control and God kept Jonah safe. This is important to remember. Do you ever disobey God? Remember, that even though we sometimes make mistakes, God still loves us. In the end, Jonah obeys God and goes to Nineveh. This is also important. It’s never too late to obey and follow God’s directions. What is God asking you to do now?

This week’s challenge

Take some time this week to listen to God; pray, meditate, or read your bible and listen to God. What is He asking you to do?