Jonah 2:1-10 – Thanksgiving And Resolve
There are a couple of possible interpretations of verse 8, and I am going to go with the one Desmond Maxwell, in his excellent commentary on Jonah, in the Tyndale OT Commentary series, opts for, and that is that those who worship idols have abandoned their loyalty to their gods. He reasons that “If, as seems likely, this verse forms a contrast with what follows in verse, then Jonah expresses here the opinion that those who worship idols will discover in times of trouble how impotent they really are, and as a result will no longer show loyalty or love to their supposed gods. Those who worship the Lord, however, will always find him trustworthy and reliable.” What a truth to keep close to your heart! Especially so that you can respond to Satan when he tempts you with the empty promises that he has idols waiting for you that always offer you more than what you are getting from the gracious and loving hand of your Father in heaven.
Having experienced the rescuing power of God, there is a heart-resolved commitment here – “I, with the voice of thanksgiving, will sacrifice to you.” That’s not merely a pleasant platitude; it’s a statement spoken from a heart that has made a serious and pre-mediated determination. And it is followed up with a second statement of similar faith-driven commitment, “what I have vowed, I will pay.” How many Christians can say that? Can you say that? It has certainly made me think about the vows I have made, and how serious I am about doing what I have said. Surely, the activities of pagan idol worshippers, who give themselves without reservation to the keeping of vows, should be an indictment to many who profess the name of Christ. How truly thankful are we of the glorious truth that ‘Salvation that belongs to the Lord’, and how does it show in our lives?
Question
- How does Jonah respond to his deliverance?
Prayer Points
- Pray for the preaching and hearing of God’s Word tomorrow.
- Use prayer points from your congregation.
- Pray for family matters.