Jonah's Prayer

From inside the fish, Jonah prayed to the Lord his God:

“When I was in trouble, Lord, I prayed to you, and you listened to me. From deep in the world of the dead, I begged for your help, and you answered my prayer.

You threw me down to the bottom of the sea. The water was churning all around; I was completely covered by your mighty waves. I thought I was swept away from your sight, never again to see your holy temple.

I was almost drowned by the swirling waters that surrounded me. Seaweed had wrapped around my head. I had sunk down below the underwater mountains; I knew that forever, I would be a prisoner there.

But, you, Lord God, rescued me from that pit. When my life was slipping away, I remembered you—and in your holy temple you heard my prayer.

All who worship worthless idols turn from the God who offers them mercy. But with shouts of praise, I will offer a sacrifice to you, my Lord. I will keep my promise, because you are the one with power to save.”

The Lord commanded the fish to vomit up Jonah on the shore. And it did.

Jonah 2:1-10 Contemporary English Version (CEV)

Sovereign Lord,

I offer to you the highest praise because You are the Most High God. Heaven and earth declare Your glory. Where can I go that You are not? Your presence is constant and I worship You in Spirit and in truth. Thank You for your mercy and grace as You contend with my fears. Just as I am, You love me. Just as I am, all things are subject to Your will.

In the matchless name of Jesus, I pray,

Amen.