Parent & Prodigy: JonahSample

Jonah's Prayer In The Fish's Belly

Share the story of Jonah's prayer in the belly of the fish. Explain that when Jonah was in the dark, confined space of the fish's belly, he was in a tough situation and felt desperate. In his distress and realization of his disobedience, Jonah prayed a heartfelt and repentant prayer to God.

He told God that he was sorry for running away and that he wanted to do what God had asked him to do. He asked for forgiveness and promised to obey God's plans from that moment on.

God heard Jonah's prayer and saw that he was truly sorry. So, God made the fish spit Jonah out onto the shore. Jonah was safe, and he knew he had a second chance to do the right thing.

Key Verse: "He said, "When I was in trouble, I called out to the Lord. And he answered me. When I was deep in the place of the dead, I called out for help. And you listened to my cry." (Jonah 2:2 NIrV)

Key Term(s):

• Repent/Repentance

Let's Talk!

1. Ask your child to imagine being inside the fish's belly, surrounded by darkness and water. How do they think Jonah might have felt?
2. Discuss with your child the importance of turning to God when we're in a tough spot or when we've made a mistake. Share examples from your own life when you've turned to God for help.
3. Encourage your child to think about a time when they needed help and how they prayed to God. Discuss the importance of genuine repentance and seeking God's forgiveness.
4. Ask your child how they can learn from Jonah's experience in Chapter Two.