Running but not alone

Running, But Not Alone – Jonah Chapter 1

Have you ever tried to run from something God was calling you to do? Maybe it felt too big, too scary, or just not part of your plan. If so, you're not alone. Jonah did the same thing.

In Jonah chapter 1, God gives Jonah a clear assignment: “Go to the great city of Nineveh and preach against it.” But instead of obeying, Jonah boards a ship heading in the exact opposite direction. He’s not just fleeing Nineveh—he’s trying to flee from God.

And yet, God doesn’t give up on Jonah.

What follows is a powerful reminder that even in our disobedience, God doesn’t abandon us. A storm arises. The sailors are terrified. Jonah finally admits what’s going on, and offers to be thrown overboard. It seems like the end—but it’s not. God sends a great fish to rescue him. Even in Jonah’s lowest moment, God is already preparing a way forward.

Here’s the hope: God pursues us not to punish us, but to restore us. God’s call on your life is not canceled by your detours. Even when we run, God runs after us with grace, purpose, and love.

So if you find yourself on the run—emotionally, spiritually, or physically—take heart. You are not lost to God. God sees you. God knows the storm. And God has already prepared a way back.

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“The word of the Lord came to Jonah…” (Jonah 1:1) — And His word still comes to us today.

Running the wrong way (and still getting there)

Let’s be honest—Jonah might be the most relatable prophet in the Bible. God says, “Go to Nineveh,” and Jonah replies, “I think I’ll head to Tarshish instead.” Classic.

Jonah didn’t run from God because he didn’t hear Him—he ran because he did. And sometimes, if we’re being real, we do the same. God nudges our hearts toward something outside our comfort zone—a conversation we don’t want to have, a call to serve, or a step of faith—and we find ourselves heading in the opposite direction.

But here’s the good news: God doesn’t give up on Jonah, and He doesn’t give up on us either.

After a storm, a sea toss, and a rather unexpected stay in the belly of a fish, Jonah finally goes where God asked him to go. And something amazing happens—God moves. People repent. Lives change. Jonah’s obedience, even delayed, becomes part of God’s bigger plan.

The story reminds us that the direction God calls us to matters. It may not always be easy, or logical, or convenient—but it’s always purposeful. Obedience isn’t about perfection; it’s about trust. It’s saying, “Yes, Lord,” even when the path looks a little fishy.

So wherever God is calling you today—toward reconciliation, service, courage, or something new—don’t run. Or at least, don’t keep running. Turn around. Follow His lead. You never know what kind of grace is waiting on the other side of your “yes.”

“Then the word of the Lord came to Jonah a second time…”
—Jonah 3:1

Because God is the God of second chances—and He always knows the right direction.

Father

Last Sunday was Father’s Day—a time to celebrate the dads, granddads, and father figures who have shaped our lives. I’m incredibly grateful that my children have a wonderful dad, and we took the weekend to celebrate him and all he means to our family.

I have to admit, though, that Father’s Day has never been a big deal for me personally. Growing up, my dad wasn’t around. My parents separated and divorced when I was young, and as a result, my relationship with my father—right up until his passing over 20 years ago—was distant at best.

When I became a Christian, some people assumed that because my earthly father relationship was strained, I must struggle to relate to God as Father. But honestly, nothing could be further from the truth.

There’s a moment after Jesus’ resurrection that has always spoken deeply to me. Jesus says to Mary, “Do not hold on to me, for I have not yet ascended to the Father. Go instead to my brothers and tell them, ‘I am ascending to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.’” (John 20:17)

Those words still move me: “My Father and your Father.” Through Jesus, we are welcomed into a relationship with God as our own Father. From that moment on, no child is ever truly fatherless.

And in God’s great love, our Heavenly Father often places people in our lives to reflect His care and character. For some of you, that may have been your dad, or a grandfather, a coach, or a teacher. For me, it was an uncle who showed kindness and compassion when I was a child. And now, as an adult, God continues to reveal Himself through godly men and mentors in the church who guide and encourage me.

So even though Father’s Day may carry different meanings for each of us, I remain deeply thankful—for my Heavenly Father, and for all the men God has used to reflect His love in my life. I pray you can see those reflections in your life too.