Sunday, August 10, 2025 | Pastor Rob Vance

Today we explore Jonah’s story and discover what might happen when we go our own way instead of God’s way. We are challenged to look at our idols and consider what blessings we might be giving up when we don’t follow God.

Jonah 2:8-9

Jonah was a reluctant prophet.

Why did Jonah go the opposite way? He didn’t want Nineveh to repent. He knew God would forgive them if they did.

If we don’t go God’s way, He will have to do something which will be uncomfortable.

He does it for a reason; He wants us to have time to think.

When you go your own way, you are choosing trouble and giving up blessings.

Anything in your life that takes you away from God is an idol.

We should thank God for the time He gives us to process our choices.

Psalm 46:10–Be still and know that I am God.

Think about the blessings you forfeited.

Jonah came to a proper conclusion while he had time to think in the belly of the fish.

When you change your thinking, you repent of your choices and redirect.

Jonah gave up his idols and turned back toward God’s direction.

Slow down, stop, and think about God’s character, plan, and heart.

We can’t write off lost people. God can change any heart at any time.

It is impossible to out-sin God’s grace.

Romans 8:28–God works for the good of those who love Him.