06/08/2026
Have you ever felt like Jonah?
The one who knows God, the one who experienced the depth of His love, the one who brought souls at His feet but oftentimes feels afraid when the calling is too big that running from God became the easiest option. God leads us to places where we are most needed to reach out and preach. Just like Jonah, we changed our routes to delay God's will but truly no matter how far we ran away God's purpose will always prevail.
Jonah's rebellion did not only affect him but also everyone on the ship. Likewise, when we resist God's call, the consequences often reach beyond our own lives. Our choices, influence our families, our friends, our ministries, and the very people God intended for us to reach. Following God requires an accountable and surrendered heart.
But always remember, God's mercy remained greater than any rebellion. The storm, the great fish were not signs that God had punished Jonah; they were evidence that God refused to give up on him. God pursues those He loves because His desire is never to condemn but to redeem. God never gives up on His people. As Christian we must never give up on reaching and loving His people too.
As is stated in verse 12 โPick me up and throw me into the sea,โ he replied, โand it will become calm. I know that it is my fault that this great storm has come upon you.โ and in verse 15 "Then they took Jonah and threw him overboard, and the raging sea grew calm."
The storm stopped the moment Jonah surrendered. And maybe God is waiting for your surrender too. And perhaps that is God's invitation for us today.
Before asking, "Lord, how much longer will I have to face this storm?" May we first ask, "Lord, is there anything in my heart that I still need to surrender?" Sometimes the breakthrough we are praying for begins with the surrender God has been waiting for.
His correction is proof of His love, His pursuit is evidence of His mercy. Running Away delays God's calling, but Surrender allows us to experience the fullness of His will.
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If you missed last Sunday's Sermon, catch it here:
https://youtu.be/pOeq2unwsQ0?si=QaGwAaQ2lNVysHpD
Walking in God's will, leads to God's peace
Jonah 1:1-17
Rev. Edgar P. Bacus
