Jonah 2:9
“But I will sacrifice to You with the voice of thanksgiving; I will pay what I have vowed. Salvation is of the LORD.”
This verse summarizes Jonah’s behaviour and attitude. After resisting, turning away and doubting the plans of the Lord, he returns to the Lord with repentance, sacrifice and thanksgiving. How many times have we had these ‘Jonah moments’ in our own lives, struggling to obey the Word of the Lord? Yet, once he realized his folly, Jonah made some important personal decisions and declarations which are great lessons for us.
He confessed his lack of faith and was honest about his rebellion. He did not quit praying or calling on to the Lord even when he was trapped in a dark, stinky, claustrophobic place for three days and three nights. It was like acknowledging his wrongdoings allowing himself be disciplined in the Hands of the Lord.
He decided to offer to the Lord a sacrifice and recalled the promises he had made to the Lord. His sacrifice was lifting his voice in thanksgiving and gratitude knowing that despite his own unfaithfulness the Lord was still forgiving and faithful. His declaration was that in a hopeless and horrid situation, the Lord was his Salvation. Not by his own might or strength which had fallen short by leaps, but Salvation is of the Lord!!! And the Lord didn’t leave Jonah there but gave him a new life by saving him from the belly of the fish. Beloved, isn’t it heartening to know that despite our rebellion and disobedience, the Lord loves us so much that He is not willing to give up on us. How comforting it is to know that in our distress, when we call unto Him, HE WILL ANSWER US! (Psalm 120:1)
