Jonah – A Great Fish Story ∙∙

Jonah – A Great Fish Story ∙∙

For as Jonah was in the belly of the great fish for three days and three nights, so will the Son of Man be in the heart of the earth for three days and three nights. – Matthew 12:40

Jonah 1:3-17

But Jonah got up and went in the opposite direction to get away from the LORD. He went down to the port of Joppa, where he found a ship leaving for Tarshish. He bought a ticket and went on board, hoping to escape from the LORD by sailing to Tarshish.

But the LORD hurled a mighty wind over the sea, causing a violent storm that threatened to break the ship apart. Fearing for their lives, the desperate sailors shouted to their gods for help. Then the crew cast lots to see which of them had offended the gods and caused the terrible storm. When they did this, the lots identified Jonah as the culprit.

“Why has this awful storm come down on us?” they demanded. “Who are you? What is your line of work? What country are you from? What is your nationality?” Jonah answered, “I am a Hebrew, and I worship the LORD, the God of heaven, who made the sea and the land.” The sailors were terrified when they heard this, for he had already told them he was running away from the LORD. “Oh, why did you do it?” they groaned.

Then they cried out to the LORD, Jonah’s God. “O LORD,” they pleaded, “don’t make us die for this man’s sin. And don’t hold us responsible for his death. O LORD, you have sent this storm upon him for your own good reasons.” Then the sailors picked Jonah up and threw him into the raging sea, and the storm stopped at once! The sailors were awestruck by the LORD’s great power, and they offered him a sacrifice and vowed to serve him.

Now the LORD had arranged for a great fish to swallow Jonah. And Jonah was inside the fish for three days and three nights.

Jonah: A Story of Faith and History

The book of Jonah is one of the most well-known yet often misunderstood books in the Bible. Steadman notes, from a secular perspective, the story of Jonah and the great fish is frequently dismissed as a simple fairy tale, suitable only for children. It is often ridiculed, disbelieved, and rejected as a historical fact.

However, the Lord Jesus Christ Himself affirmed the authenticity of Jonah’s story. He not only believed it but also used it as a prophetic symbol of His own death, burial, and resurrection. Jesus explained that Jonah’s three days and three nights in the belly of the great fish foreshadowed His time in the grave before His resurrection.

Matthew 12:40: “For as Jonah was three days and three nights in the belly of the great fish, so will the Son of Man be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth.”

Matthew 16:21: “From that time Jesus began to show His disciples that He must go to Jerusalem and suffer many things from the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and on the third day be raised.”

The Lord Jesus Christ, who clearly differentiated between myths and actual historical events, regarded Jonah’s story as a historical fact. If He accepted it as true, then believers can do the same with confidence.

A Modern Jonah: The Story of James Bartley

Skeptics often question whether someone can survive being swallowed by a whale. Remarkably, history offers a documented account of such an event. The British Admiralty records the story of James Bartley, an apprentice seaman on a whaling ship, who was swallowed by a whale in February 1891 and lived through it.

Bartley’s ordeal began when he was thrown overboard while chasing a whale. Presumed lost at sea, he was later found alive inside the whale’s stomach after the creature was caught and dissected. Crew members were shocked to see movement within the whale’s stomach, and Bartley was removed, unconscious but still alive.

He later recounted his experience, describing how the whale’s massive mouth engulfed him, swept past its teeth, and slid down into its stomach. Although he could breathe, the oppressive heat and foul odor caused him to lose consciousness. Bartley was trapped there for over 15 hours before being rescued.

While he survived, Bartley’s body showed the scars of his terrifying ordeal. His skin had turned white, he had lost all his hair, and he was permanently blind. Despite these lasting effects, he lived for another eighteen years, passing away in 1909. His tombstone in Gloucester reads: “James Bartley – 1870-1909 – A Modern Jonah.”

The Inescapable Presence of the Father

The story of Jonah, whether seen through the perspective of Scripture or the historical account of James Bartley, serves as a powerful reminder of the Father’s sovereignty and presence. No matter how far we attempt to flee, we cannot escape His Spirit or His plans for our lives.

Psalms 139:7: “I can never escape from your Spirit! I can never get away from your presence!”

Jonah’s defiance and disobedience mirror the struggles many children of the King face in their own lives. However, the Father’s patience and persistence demonstrate His unwavering commitment to His children, even when they resist His will.

REFLECT & PRAY

No matter how far we run or how fiercely we resist, we cannot outrun the relentless patience and persistence of the Father. His love chases after us, and His grace keeps us steady, even in our moments of defiance or despair.

Father, I do not want to be a reluctant servant, yet I see so much of myself in Jonah, defiant and disobedient. Encourage me to listen to Your voice and heed Your instructions, trusting in Your perfect plan for my life.

INSIGHT

Jonah’s Commission and Defiance

The Father called Jonah to serve as His prophet, commissioning him to deliver a message of judgment to the Assyrian capital of Nineveh. The city’s wickedness had become so great that divine intervention was needed. However, Jonah’s response was far from obedient. Instead of heading east to Nineveh, he fled west toward Tarshish, the opposite end of the known world. His defiance was apparent: “No way, I’m outta here!”

Jonah’s attempt to escape the Father’s command was futile. The Father, ruler over all creation, had no trouble finding him. To stop Jonah, He used His power over nature, creating a great storm and a great fish. Essentially, He provided Jonah with a living submarine to ensure that the prophet would complete his mission.

The Storm and the Sailors

As Jonah fled by ship, a fierce storm arose, terrifying the pagan sailors onboard. They cried out to their gods and frantically tried to lighten the ship’s load, but their efforts were useless. When they confronted Jonah, they discovered he was fleeing from the God of heaven, the Creator of the sea and land. This revelation made them hysterical.

The sailors recognized that the storm was not just an ordinary event; it was the Father’s pursuit of Jonah. They realized that Jonah’s disobedience had put all of them in danger. Reluctantly, they decided that someone had to die to save the rest. With great hesitation, they threw Jonah into the sea. As soon as Jonah hit the water, the storm ceased.

This miraculous event caused the pagan sailors to turn to God. They abandoned their false gods and committed themselves to serving the Lord God of Israel.

Jonah’s Ordeal in the Great Fish

While the sailors experienced a spiritual transformation, Jonah found himself in the dark, suffocating belly of a great fish. The conditions were unbearable, pitch black, hot, and foul-smelling. Yet, even in this dire situation, Jonah remained defiant. Though he eventually repented, his repentance was incomplete, as he continued to withhold his complete submission to the Father.

The Scriptures describe the creature that swallowed Jonah as a “great fish,” or in Hebrew, dag gadol. The people of Israel, living 2700 years ago, likely had little knowledge of whales or other large sea creatures. However, the Father, in His omniscience, had long anticipated Jonah’s rebellion. He created a unique creature specifically for this moment in history.

The Father’s Intelligent Design

The Father, who created all animals, land, air, and sea, designed a creature ideally suited to fulfill His purpose. This great fish was engineered to save Jonah from drowning, transport him safely, and deliver him to shore. While the Scriptures do not specify the exact species, the sperm whale is a likely candidate.

Sperm whales are remarkable creatures, reaching lengths of up to 60 feet. Their massive heads, which can measure 20 feet long, 10 feet high, and 7 feet across, make them capable of swallowing a man whole. Their stomachs are large enough to hold a human and provide enough oxygen for survival.

Placing the whale at the right place and time was no problem for the Father, who is both all-knowing and all-powerful. Jonah spent three days and three nights in this divinely designed underwater transport. He did not drown, suffocate, or succumb to digestion. Instead, he came out alive, finally ready to fulfill his prophetic mission.

The Miracles of Jonah’s Story

The story of Jonah is filled with miracles, each demonstrating the Father’s power and sovereignty. From the great storm to the great fish, every part of the story reveals the Father’s ability to carry out His will, even though unwilling and disobedient servants.

A miracle, by definition, is something that seems impossible but happens. Jonah’s survival inside the great fish is proof of the Father’s miraculous intervention. It reminds us that no matter how far we run or how defiant we are, the Father’s plans will succeed. Jonah’s story is not just about rebellion and redemption; it’s a powerful display of divine power, grace, and purpose.

The story of Jonah is more than a story of a man and a great fish; it’s a profound narrative of God’s mercy, sovereignty, and persistent pursuit of His people. Whether through Jonah’s experience or the modern story of James Bartley, we are reminded that the Father’s presence is inescapable, His plans are unstoppable, and His grace is endless.

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© Dr. H 2025

The Value of Weakness ∙∙

The Value of Weakness ∙∙

My grace is sufficient for you, for power is perfected in weakness. Most gladly, therefore, I will rather boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may dwell in me. – 2 Corinthians 12:9

Philippians 4:11-13

 11 I have learned how to be content with whatever I have.

 12 I know how to live on almost nothing or with everything. I have learned the secret of living in every situation, whether it is with a full stomach or empty, with plenty or little.

 13 For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength.

The Complexities of Modern Life

In recent decades, the world has undergone dramatic transformations. Our understanding of ourselves and the universe has expanded, global infrastructures have interconnected societies, and technological advancements have revolutionized communication. These changes have brought incredible opportunities but also significant challenges.

As noted by Life Squared, “One consequence of these changes that has passed relatively unnoticed is that we each have an increasingly complex world to deal with in our daily lives, which can affect us in a number of ways – some of which may be detrimental to our well-being, and which we may not even have fully acknowledged.”

The complexities of modern life often leave us feeling overwhelmed, as we grapple with conflicting demands and relentless pressures that strain our emotional and spiritual well-being.

The Paradoxes of Scripture

The Scriptures, much like modern life, can appear complex and paradoxical. They often challenge conventional wisdom and often seem counterintuitive to our fallen human DNA. For example:

  • “If you want to be first, you must be last.”
  • “If you want to save your life, you must lose it.”
  • “If you want to be strong, you must glory in your weakness.”

These teachings, though seemingly backward, reveal profound spiritual truths. They invite us to shift our perspective, moving away from self-reliance and toward dependence on God.

Shared Human Experiences

Life’s demands and challenges are universal. Who among us has not at one time or another experienced disappointment, embarrassment, the sting of rejection, and the sorrow of failure? These moments often expose our deepest fears and insecurities, leaving us vulnerable and overwhelmed. Such experiences can lead to cycles of despair, anger, and frustration. However, there is a more excellent way to respond, one that leads to peace and contentment.

Paul’s Perspective on Weakness

The Apostle Paul serves as a powerful example of how to navigate life’s challenges with grace and faith. Over time, Paul began to view obstacles as opportunities, weaknesses as strengths, and defeats as victories. Paul found worth not in his strengths but in his weaknesses. Why? Because weaknesses can bring us to the end of ourselves. They expose our limitations and inabilities, pushing us to rely on God. His perspective was not rooted in his own abilities but in his reliance on Christ.

Paul writes in 2 Corinthians 12:9-10: “My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness. So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ can work through me. That’s why I take pleasure in my weaknesses, and in the insults, hardships, persecutions, and troubles that I suffer for Christ. For when I am weak, then I am strong.”

When we are strong in ourselves, we are weak in Christ. But when we are weak in ourselves, we are strong in Christ. This paradox is at the heart of the Christian life, teaching us to embrace our limitations as opportunities for God’s power to be displayed.

REFLECT & PRAY

For many, the complexities of life have left us exhausted, discouraged, and despondent. We feel lonely, misunderstood, and burdened by melancholy. Yet, in these moments of weakness, we can turn to the Father for strength.

Father, I come before You, weary and worn from the relentless struggles I have faced. My spirit feels depleted, and the weight of discouragement is heavy upon my heart. In this moment of vulnerability, I seek Your divine strength. Teach me to embrace my weaknesses, recognizing them as opportunities to lean more deeply into Your grace and power.

INSIGHT

The Gift of Indwelling Presence of the Holy Spirit

One of the most extraordinary and unimaginable gifts the Father gives us when we accept the Lord Jesus Christ as our Savior is the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit (John 14:16-17). At that very moment, He takes up residence within us, offering His unlimited resources and power to guide and sustain us. The presence of God is not just a theological construct but a living reality that transforms our lives from the inside out.

How does this work? It remains a profound mystery, yet with a bit of imagination, we can begin to grasp its significance.

A Football Analogy: The Power of Indwelling

Consider the legendary NFL player Jerry Rice, widely regarded as the greatest football player of all time. Over his 20-year career, Rice set nearly every conceivable receiving record, including 1,549 catches for 22,985 yards and 197 touchdowns. He was the MVP of Super Bowl XXIII and earned three Super Bowl rings. Remarkably, Rice gained more receiving yards in his 30s than in his 20s, demonstrating his durability and consistent excellence.

Now, imagine you wanted to become a wide receiver but had no clue where to start. What if, in some miraculous way, Jerry Rice could inhabit your body? His skills, instincts, and abilities would now work through you. Suddenly, everything he could do would be possible for you.

This analogy offers a glimpse into the reality of the Holy Spirit’s presence dwelling within us. Are you ready to gear up and give it a try?

That is what the Father asks us to do: trust Him and allow Christ to live His life through us. He doesn’t remove the pressures or challenges we face, but He offers His grace so those difficulties work for us rather than against us. Through His indwelling, we move from bondage and drudgery to freedom, experiencing His all-sufficient grace and strength.

Paul’s Experience of Grace in Weakness

The Apostle Paul provides a powerful example of how the Father’s grace works in our lives. When Paul accepted his affliction as a gift from God, it opened the door for God’s grace to operate entirely within him. In his suffering, Paul found assurance in the Father’s promise.

2 Corinthians 12:9: “My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.”

Paul’s suffering became an opportunity for God’s strength to be revealed. Rather than providing explanations for Paul’s pain, the Father made him a promise. This promise was not just a comfort but a foundation for faith.

When we face trials, we often ask, “Why?” But as children of the King, we’re not meant to live on explanations, but on promises. While explanations might satisfy our minds, promises bring our faith to life. They build trust in the Father and give us hope in uncertain times. 

The Power of the Word in Affliction

In times of suffering, the Word of God becomes an essential source of strength and guidance. As Wiersbe notes, whenever we are afflicted, we should spend extra time in Scripture. The Father always has a special message for His children during these moments. His Word speaks directly to our hearts, offering reassurance and direction when we need it most.

Freedom in the Father’s Love

The indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit offers a freedom that nothing else can provide. When we release our fears to Him, we experience the strength of His eternal power and love. This freedom is not merely the absence of fear but the presence of His peace, a peace that surpasses all understanding.

As Stanley beautifully affirms, “Nothing compares to the freedom that waits for you within His loving arms. Nothing will ever bring more completion to your heart and soul than knowing the strength of His indwelling, eternal power, and love.”

Living in the Promise

The Father’s promises remain constant, even when our feelings fluctuate. They form the foundation of our faith and the source of our hope. Through the indwelling Holy Spirit, we are empowered to face life’s challenges with confidence, knowing that His grace is sufficient and His power is made perfect in our weakness.

Let go of your fears and trust in the Father who loves you deeply. There’s no greater freedom than what you will find in His warm embrace. Experiencing the fullness of His eternal power and love will provide more fulfillment to your heart and soul than anything else.

The paradoxes found in Scripture teach us that God’s ways are higher than our ways. In a world that values self-sufficiency and strength, the Father encourages us to adopt a posture of humility and reliance on Christ. Weakness isn’t a defect; it’s an opportunity for God’s grace to shine brightly.

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© Dr. H 2025

The Midwife of the New Testament ∙

The Midwife of the New Testament ∙

But you must remain faithful to the things you have been taught. You know they are true because you can trust those who taught you. You have been taught the holy Scriptures from childhood, and they have given you the wisdom to receive the salvation that comes by trusting in Christ Jesus. – 2 Timothy 3:14-15

2 Timothy 3:16-17

 16 All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right.

 17 God uses it to prepare and equip his people for every good work.

The Ancient Profession of Midwifery

Midwifery is one of the oldest responsibilities, practiced for thousands of years. Even today, midwives play a crucial role in safeguarding the health and well-being of women and their babies. They offer a variety of services to support women throughout pregnancy and childbirth, providing care that is both compassionate and essential.

How did the Old and New Testaments become united as One Book?

God chose Irenaeus, an early church father, to fulfill this vital role. He served as a spiritual midwife, ensuring the proper delivery and transmission of the Holy Bible. Irenaeus was among the first to recognize that the books in both the New Testament and the Old Testament form a single, divinely inspired, authoritative revelation centered on the person of the Lord Jesus Christ. Prior to his efforts, the New Testament had not yet been finalized as a single, complete collection.

Through his teachings, Irenaeus emphasized that the Old Testament foreshadowed Christ through types and prophecies, while the New Testament fulfilled these promises, revealing their true meaning. His concept of the “rule of truth” provided a theological framework that unified the Testaments, showing that they both pointed to the same God and plan of salvation. He emphasized their continuity, explaining that the Old Testament foreshadowed the Lord Jesus Christ, while the New Testament fulfilled the expectations.

Irenaeus’s Vision in The Demonstration of the Apostolic Preaching

Irenaeus’s book, The Demonstration of the Apostolic Preaching, discovered in the 20th century, offers deep insight into his perspective. In this work, he connects the preaching of the New Testament apostles to its origins in the Law, Psalms, and Prophets.

The four Gospels lead up to the Passion of Christ, narrating His story with references to Hebrew Scripture. Irenaeus emphasized how the apostles used Old Testament prophecies to proclaim Christ, aligning with Paul’s declaration: 1 Corinthians 15:3-4: “I passed on to you what was most important and what had also been passed on to me. Christ died for our sins, just as the Scriptures said. He was buried, and he was raised from the dead on the third day, just as the Scriptures said.”

For Irenaeus, the Lord Jesus Christ is the central focus of Scripture. The apostles revealed Him by connecting His life and mission to the Old Testament, showing that He is not only the subject of Scripture but also its ultimate author.

Christ: The Treasure Concealed in Scripture

Irenaeus presented Christ as a hidden treasure found within Scripture. He emphasized that Christ can be discovered throughout the narratives, teachings, and actions of the patriarchs and prophets from the Old Testament. These figures are often referred to as “types” and serve as foreshadowing of deeper truths that are fully revealed in the New Testament.

God intentionally designed these types to prepare humanity for the coming of Christ, effectively making the spiritual “field” ripe for harvest. Before Christ’s arrival, the true importance of these figures and their stories was not fully understood. However, the Gospels and the writings of the New Testament shed light on the Old Testament, revealing its deep meaning and connecting it to the life and mission of Christ. Together, the Old and New Testaments form a unified and complete expression of God’s Word, unveiling His overall plan for salvation.

REFLECT & PRAY

Ryrie emphasizes that the Bible is an extraordinary book, compiled over a span of 1500 years by roughly 40 different authors. Despite this diversity, it remains a unified work without contradictions. The Bible speaks with authority on both the known and the unknowable, addressing humanity’s achievements and failures, as well as discussions about the past and future. Few books attempt to cover such a vast scope, and none match the accuracy of the Bible.

Father, thank You for providing and preserving Your complete and inerrant Book of Truth, the Word of God.

INSIGHT

The Divine Inspiration and Preservation of Scripture

The Scriptures were written through the inspiration of God, as affirmed in 2 Timothy 3:16-17: “All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. God uses it to prepare and equip his people to do every good work.” Their preservation and transmission were entrusted to faithful individuals who safeguarded the Word of God across generations.

The Meaning of “Passed On” and “Received”

Paul echoes this responsibility in 1 Corinthians 11:23: “For I pass on to you what I received from the Lord himself.”

Fee notes that the verbs “passed on” and “received” are deeply rooted in Paul’s Jewish heritage, reflecting the rabbinical tradition of transmitting religious instruction.

The Greek term paradidomi, translated as “passed on,” conveys “the act of entrusting, committing, or handing over something of immense value for safekeeping.” Paul carefully passed on the sacred truths of the Word of God, ensuring they would be studied, internalized, and used as a source of truth, knowledge, and guidance.

Similarly, the Greek term paralambano, translated as “received,” refers to “the formal imparting of authoritative teaching.” The Jewish authors of the Old Testament understood the gravity of their task, recognizing that they were handling sacred texts. They meticulously copied these Scriptures without error, passing them down to future generations with the utmost care and reverence.

The Continuity of Christian Doctrine

The foundational doctrines of Christianity, including the atonement through the death and resurrection of Christ, were known and established well before Paul’s New Testament letters. Paul simply refined and expanded these doctrines. He himself acknowledged that he received these essential teachings and faithfully passed them on to others.

The phrase “from the Lord” (apo tou kyriou) in 1 Corinthians 11:23 stresses Christ as the source of the tradition. Paul does not specify how he received the tradition about the Lord’s Supper. The focus is not on the how (the method) but instead on the Who, the Lord Jesus Christ. His emphasis is on the authoritative nature of this tradition, coming from Christ Himself.

The Role of Paradidomi in Mark’s Gospel

The verb paradidomi appears frequently in Mark’s Gospel and is often translated as “betrayed.” The term can also be translated as “handed over” or “delivered up,” adding an intriguing layer to its meaning. Is this a direct reference to God’s plan of redemption as depicted in Isaiah 53? In Isaiah 53:6, the Lord is described as surrendering His suffering servant for our transgressions, using the same Greek word, paradidomi, in the Septuagint. Take a moment and reflect.

The Legacy of Faithful Stewards

The preservation of Scripture is a testament to the sacrifices and dedication of countless individuals. From the Old Testament prophets to the New Testament apostles, as referenced in Ephesians 2:20: “Together, we are his house, built on the foundation of the apostles and the prophets. And the cornerstone is Christ Jesus himself,” these faithful men and women protected and passed on the sacred Word of God.

Thanks to their efforts, we have inherited the Scriptures as a treasure, offering wisdom, guidance, and the promise of salvation through Christ. Let us honor their legacy by cherishing and living out the truths of God’s Word.

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© Dr. H 2025

Going Forward on Your Knees ∙∙

Going Forward on Your Knees ∙∙

I will go before you and make the rough places smooth. I will smash down the gates of bronze and cut through bars of iron. – Isaiah 45:2

Nehemiah 1:3-11:

“Things are not going well for those who returned to the province of Judah. They are in great trouble and disgrace. The wall of Jerusalem has been torn down, and the gates have been destroyed by fire.”

“When I heard this, I sat down and wept. In fact, for days, I mourned, fasted, and prayed to the God of heaven. Then I said, O LORD, God of heaven, the great and awesome God who keeps his covenant of unfailing love with those who love him and obey his commands, listen to my prayer! Look down and see me praying night and day for your people, Israel. I confess that we have sinned against you. Yes, even my own family and I have sinned! We have sinned terribly by not obeying the commands, decrees, and regulations that you gave us through your servant Moses.”

“Please remember what you told your servant Moses: If you are unfaithful to me, I will scatter you among the nations. But if you return to me and obey my commands and live by them, then even if you are exiled to the ends of the earth, I will bring you back to the place I have chosen for my name to be honored. The people you rescued by your great power and strong hand are your servants.”

“O Lord, please hear my prayer! Listen to the prayers of those of us who delight in honoring you. Please grant me success today by making the king favorable to me. Put it into his heart to be kind to me.”

Moving Forward on Your Knees: The Legacy of Hudson Taylor

The story of Hudson Taylor, as shared in Going Forward on Your Knees, continues to inspire generations of children of the King. Taylor, an early missionary to China, faced numerous challenges, including poor health, financial struggles, and language barriers, yet he successfully established the China Inland Mission. His life and writings serve as a testament to the power of faith and perseverance.

The book’s title originates from Taylor’s advice to fellow missionary Jonathan Goforth. Taylor encouraged him by telling him that to succeed in China, he had to “go forward on your knees.” This impactful statement underscores the vital role of prayer in a believer’s life.

The Power and Purpose of Prayer

The book emphasizes the significance of prayer as a way to connect with the Father’s will. Prayer is not a passive act but an active collaboration with God. The Father is always at work, and through prayer, children of the King are encouraged to participate in His divine plans.

When children of the King “Seek God’s Face,” they are granted the privilege of understanding His will and praying it into existence. As Ray Prichard notes, “Maybe one of the reasons the church is not moving forward today is because it’s not in a position to go forward, we are not on our knees in prayer.”

In a period when America appears to be disintegrating, the solution to the turmoil lies in prayer. It is solely through prayer that the Father discloses His intentions to each of His children, readying them to respond according to His plan.

Nehemiah: A Model of Prayerful Leadership

Nehemiah provides a powerful example of moving forward on one’s knees. When he heard the devastating news about Jerusalem’s broken walls and gates, Nehemiah immediately turned to prayer. He sought the Father’s guidance, fully confident that God wanted Jerusalem to be restored and protected.

Nehemiah’s prayer was not vague or general; it was specific and heartfelt. He started by confessing his sins and those of his people, recognizing their failure to obey God’s commands. He then reminded God of His covenant promises to Israel, demonstrating his deep understanding of God’s Word.

Finally, Nehemiah prayed for a particular outcome: that the Father would touch the king’s heart so that he would grant Nehemiah favor. As the king’s cupbearer, Nehemiah held a position of significant influence and trust. His role was similar to that of a personal security agent, tasting the king’s wine to ensure it was safe. This unique position gave Nehemiah regular access to the king, but he knew only God could soften the king’s heart and provide the resources needed to rebuild Jerusalem’s walls.

Nehemiah 1:11: “O Lord, please hear my prayer! Listen to the prayers of those of us who delight in honoring you. Please grant me success today by making the king favorable to me. Put it into his heart to be kind to me.”

Nehemiah’s prayer demonstrates the power of seeking God’s will and trusting Him to work through human circumstances to fulfill His divine plans.

The Slender Nerve That Moves Omnipotence

As Charles Spurgeon so eloquently stated, “Prayer is that slender nerve that moves the muscles of omnipotence.” Prayer is not just a ritual or last resort; it is how children of the King connect with God’s power to fulfill His will on earth.

REFLECT & PRAY

In difficult and uncertain days, the examples of Hudson Taylor and Nehemiah remind us to turn to the Father in prayer. Through prayer, we align ourselves with His purposes and gain the strength to move forward, not in our own power, but in His.

Father, as we face the unsettled days we live in, we choose to seek Your face. Show us how to pray in our current circumstances so that Your will may be done on earth as it is in heaven.

INSIGHT

The Timing of Prayer and The Answer

Nehemiah’s story is a powerful example of patience and persistence in prayer. He started praying in the Jewish month of Kislev, which corresponds to November or December on our modern calendar, as recorded in Nehemiah 1:1. However, the answer did not come right away. It took about five months before the Father responded. The breakthrough happened in the month of Nisan, which is March or April, as noted in Nehemiah 2:1.

During this period, Nehemiah stayed committed in prayer, trusting that the Father would act at the right time. When the answer finally arrived, it surpassed all expectations. The Father not only heard Nehemiah’s prayer but also moved King Artaxerxes’ heart to show kindness and generosity.

The King’s Favor

When the moment arrived, Nehemiah was ready. The king asked him, “Well, how can I help you?” Nehemiah’s response was immediate but grounded in prayer.

Nehemiah 2:4-5: “With a prayer to the God of heaven, I replied, ‘If it please the king, and if you are pleased with me, your servant, send me to Judah to rebuild the city where my ancestors are buried.’”

This brief but heartfelt prayer shows Nehemiah’s dependence on the Father when facing earthly authority. His request was bold yet respectful, and the king’s response was remarkable.

Artaxerxes granted Nehemiah everything he needed to complete the massive task of rebuilding Jerusalem’s walls and defenses. The king provided letters to ensure safe passage, access to building materials, and even a small army for protection. It was as if Nehemiah received an all-inclusive pass, giving him every resource necessary to carry out the Father’s will.

The Hand of God in Human Affairs

Nehemiah was quick to acknowledge that the success of his mission was not solely due to his efforts or the king’s generosity. He understood that the Father, the living God, is in control of history and influences the hearts of powerful people. As seen in Nehemiah 2:8: “And the king granted these requests because the gracious hand of God was on me.”

This statement highlights a profound truth: while human authority contributes to achieving God’s purposes, it is ultimately the Father who orchestrates events and influences hearts to align with His will.

A Model of Prayer and Leadership

Nehemiah’s story offers a blueprint for effective prayer and leadership.  He exhibited unwavering faith, patience, and reliance on God while also recognizing the importance of engaging with human authority. Nehemiah’s close relationship with King Artaxerxes positioned him uniquely to serve as the bridge between divine will and earthly power.

Through prayer, preparation, and trust in the Father’s timing, Nehemiah was able to accomplish what seemed impossible. His story reminds us that God’s hand is always at work, guiding history and influencing the hearts of those in power to fulfill His purposes.

The lives of Hudson Taylor and Nehemiah illustrate that prayer is not a passive act but rather a potent force that can shape history. By earnestly seeking God’s presence and surrendering to His will, children of the King can move forward with confidence, assured that His purposes will ultimately prevail. Whether on the mission fields of China or amidst the crumbling walls of Jerusalem, the path to victory begins on our knees.

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© Dr. H 2025

His Way ∙∙

His Way ∙∙

Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not rely on your own understanding. – Proverbs 3:5

Luke 22:39-45

Then, accompanied by the disciples, Jesus left the upstairs room and went as usual to the Mount of Olives. There he told them, “Pray that you will not give in to temptation.”

He walked away, about a stone’s throw, and knelt down and prayed, “Father, if you are willing, please take this cup of suffering away from me. Yet I want your will to be done, not mine.”

He returned to the disciples, only to find them asleep, exhausted from grief.

The Story Behind “My Way”

In 1968, Paul Anka wrote the lyrics for the iconic song “My Way,” which became a defining anthem for individuality and self-determination. The song was based on a French composition titled “Comme d’habitude,” recorded by Claude François in 1967. Anka first heard the song in France, and inspired by its melody, he wrote new English lyrics upon returning to New York.

Paul Anka gifted the song to Frank Sinatra, who recorded it on December 30, 1968. It quickly became Sinatra’s signature song, embodying his larger-than-life persona. Reflecting on the song in his later years, Sinatra described it as “a Paul Anka pop hit which became a kind of national anthem.”

In the UK, “My Way” achieved remarkable success, entering the charts six times between 1970 and 1971, making it the song with the longest stay on the chart during that period. Its cultural impact extended beyond music, becoming a deeply personal anthem for many. In 2005, a survey conducted by Co-Operative Funeral Care revealed that “My Way” was the most requested song at funerals in the UK. Spokesman Phil Edwards explained its lasting charm: “It has that timeless appeal – the words sum up what so many people feel about their lives and how they would like their loved ones to remember them.”

His Way or “My Way?”

The Scriptures highlight the wisdom and importance of following the Lord and walking in His ways. They emphasize obedience, trust, and loyalty to the Father as the foundation for a relationship with Him. We are encouraged to walk in His way. For example, Deuteronomy 5:33 asserts, “Walk in obedience to all that the Lord your God has commanded you, so that you may live and prosper and prolong your days in the land that you will possess.”

As children of the King, we are called to surrender our will to His, trusting in His eternal plan. The song “My Way” is diametrically opposed. Yet its message of independence and self-reliance resonates deeply with human nature. Humanity’s natural tendency is to seek independence and freedom. Deep down, we are driven to declare, “I did it my way.”

Each of us faces a fundamental choice throughout our lives: will we choose His way or “my way”? This decision is not a one-time event; it must be reaffirmed repeatedly as we navigate life’s challenges.

The Garden of Gethsemane: A Model of Submission

In the Garden of Gethsemane, the Lord Jesus Christ faced His most significant test of submission. Anticipating the horror of His crucifixion, the physical agony, and the temporary separation from the Father, He prayed: Luke 22:42: “Father, if you are willing, please take this cup of suffering away from me. Yet I want your will to be done, not mine.”

This moment shows the true humanity of the Lord Jesus Christ. Humanly speaking, He would have preferred to avoid the shame, pain, and suffering of the cross. His prayer was not a sign of doubt or a desire to back out but a reflection of His real human feelings.

The word “cup” is used symbolically to represent the suffering and sacrifice that awaited Him. While He asked the Father to take the “cup” from Him if it were possible, He ultimately submitted to the Father’s will. His prayer was not a request for His own desires to be fulfilled but a surrender to the Father’s eternal plan.

The Ultimate Act of Trust

The Lord Jesus Christ’s prayer in Gethsemane demonstrates complete trust and submission to the Father. Despite His anguish, He surrendered all His concerns to the Father, choosing obedience over personal preference. His willingness to say, “not my will but Yours be done,” serves as the ultimate example of faith and trust in God’s plan.

REFLECT & PRAY

The Lord Jesus Christ showed us how to trust the Father no matter the cost. His example calls us to repeatedly choose His way over our way, surrendering our fears, desires, and plans to His perfect will.

Father, my flesh is weak, oh so very weak, but my spirit is willing. I want to repeatedly decide and say, “Not my will but Yours be done. Please make it so.”

INSIGHT

The Struggle Between Spirit and Flesh

The apostle Matthew provides a profound insight into the tension that exists within every child of the King. Why is it so difficult for us to surrender our way to His way?

Matthew 26:41: “Keep watching and praying that you may not enter into temptation; the spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.”

This verse captures the essence of the human condition. Although our spirits are willing and eager to follow God’s will, our flesh, reflecting our human nature, often stumbles. This internal struggle is a defining characteristic of our fallen state, representing an ongoing battle between our desire to obey and our tendency toward self-reliance and independence.

The Desire for “My Way”

Each child of the King wrestles with the innate desire to do things “our own way.” It is embedded in our flawed DNA, a remnant of humanity’s rebellion against the Father. Even the Lord Jesus Christ, in His humanity, experienced this tension. In the Garden of Gethsemane, He offered a heartfelt prayer to His eternal Father in heaven. His request was sincere, yet it was not granted.

Imagine the Father’s perspective in that moment. Perhaps His thoughts were something like this: “Oh, my dear, greatly beloved Son, if only it could be so. But this is the eternal purpose that We decided upon. I know You will see it through to the end. I will always have Your back. Your pain is My pain. But I am confident that we will win. You will indeed save Your people from their sins and make redemption available for all who will take it.”

This moment reveals the depth of the Father’s love and the significance of the eternal plan. It also reminds us that when we face suffering, we can trust that the Father is with us, even if His answer to our prayers isn’t what we hoped for.

Surrendering to His Will

When we face life’s setbacks and struggles, it is essential to adopt the attitude of surrender exemplified by the Lord Jesus Christ: “Your will be done, not mine.” From the Father’s perspective, these challenges are not meaningless; they are preparation for what’s ahead.

As Tertullian famously said, “The blood of the martyrs is the seed of the Church.” This statement emphasizes the truth that even in suffering, God’s purposes prevail. Our trials, though painful, often serve a greater purpose within His eternal plan.

A Song of Surrender: “Your Way”

Inspired by Paul Anka and Frank Sinatra’s “My Way,” perhaps we should each write our own song of surrender, declaring our commitment to follow His way.

 “Your Way”

And now, the end is near, and so I face the final curtain.
My friend, I’ll say it clear, I’ll state my case, of which I’m certain.
I’ve lived a life that’s full.
I traveled each and every highway.
And more, much more than this, I did it Your way.’

Regrets, I’ve had a few, but then again, too few to mention.
I did what I had to do, and saw it through without exemption.
You planned each charted course,
Each careful step along the byway.
And more, much more than this, I did it Your way.

Yes, there were times, I’m sure You knew, when I bit off more than I could chew.
But through it all, when there was doubt, I ate it up and spit it out.
I faced it all and I stood tall and did it Your way.

I’ve loved, I’ve laughed and cried; I’ve had my fill, my share of losing.
And now, as tears subside, I find it all so amusing.
To think I did all that, and may I say, not in a shy way.
Oh, no, oh, no, not me, I did it Your way!

For what is a man, what has he got? If not You, then he has naught.
To say the things he truly feels, and the words of one who kneels.
The record shows I took the blows and did it Your way.

Yes, it was Your way.

The Eternal Perspective

The journey of faith is one of surrender, a daily decision to choose His way over our own. While our flesh may resist, the Spirit within us empowers us to trust in the Father’s plan. Life’s challenges and unanswered prayers are not signs of abandonment but opportunities to grow in faith and dependence on Him.

In the end, the greatest fulfillment comes not from declaring, “I did it my way,” but from living a life that proclaims, “I did it Your way.”

The decision to follow His way instead of our own is not always easy, but it is the path to true freedom and fulfillment. The Lord Jesus Christ’s submission in Gethsemane reminds us that trusting the Father’s will, even in the face of suffering, leads to eternal purpose and peace. His way is always higher, always better, and always rooted in love.

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© Dr. H 2025