God Doesn’t Run Away from Runaways (Sermon Blog)
Series Recap: Last week, Pastor Steve began our new series Jonah, reminding us that running from God always leads to storms. In Part 2, we find Jonah in the belly of a giant fish — literally swallowed by the consequences of his choices — yet surrounded by God’s mercy.
Even when Jonah ran, God didn’t run away from him.
When You’ve Run Away from God
We’ve all had seasons where we’ve drifted or outright run from God. The good news? God doesn’t abandon runaways.
From inside the fish, Jonah prayed:
“I cried out to the Lord in my great trouble, and He answered me.” — Jonah 2:2
Pastor Steve shared three truths from Jonah’s story that help us find our way back to God.
1. God Doesn’t Run Away from Runaways
God is always present, even when we’ve made a mess of things.
His mercy outlasts our mistakes.
There’s no “bad connection” with God—He hears every honest prayer.
“God is not like a cell tower. You don’t lose reception when you drift away.”
Prayer isn’t about using fancy words or special places — it’s simply honest communication with God. Whether you’re in your car, at work, on a plane, or like Jonah, in a dark and desperate place, you can talk to God anywhere, anytime.
2. You Can Talk to God — No Matter How Long It’s Been
Jonah thought he’d gone too far. But even from the depths, God heard him.
You can always pray again — even if it’s been years.
God welcomes you back with compassion, not condemnation.
Honest prayers often begin with just one word: Help.
“If you draw near to Me, I’ll draw near to you.” — James 4:8
Sometimes, reconnecting with God begins with two quiet minutes of vulnerability and truth.
3. Submit to God’s Rescue Plan
Jonah finally realized his way wasn’t working. He said:
“You threw me into the ocean depths... yet I will look once more toward Your holy temple.” — Jonah 2:3–4
Coming back to God means:
Honesty — admitting your part in the mess.
Humility — taking responsibility instead of blaming others.
Hope — refusing to give in to despair.
Even tangled in seaweed and regret, Jonah reached out to God — and God reached back.
4. Renew Your Relationship with God
Jonah closed his prayer with gratitude and surrender:
“Salvation comes from the Lord alone.” — Jonah 2:9
When we stop trying to fix things our way and let God lead, He brings freedom, peace, and new beginnings. The story ends with God commanding the fish to release Jonah — a literal and spiritual second chance.
Key Takeaways
God never gives up on you, no matter how far you’ve run.
Prayer is your lifeline, not your last resort.
Surrender opens the door for God’s rescue and renewal.
Jonah’s story reminds us that God’s grace swims deeper than our rebellion — and He’s always ready to pull us back to shore.
Pastor Steve will continue this Sunday in our Jonah series.
Join us at Pacific Life Church as we keep following Jonah’s journey — and discover how God turns our running into redemption.