Jonah is probably most commonly known for his adventures with the whale. But hidden within this short book of the Bible (just four chapters long), we find Jonah’s prayers to God.

“Then Jonah prayed to the Lord his God from inside the fish. He said, “I cried out to the Lord in my great trouble, and he answered me.” (Jonah 2:1-2, NLT)

Within this one prayer, he cried these words:

“As my life was slipping away, I remembered the Lord. And my earnest prayer went out to you in your holy Temple.” (Jonah 2:7, NLT)

Jonah knew where to turn his thoughts when the situation became dire. Finding himself in the belly of this great fish, there was nothing more he could do then cry out to God.

It was after Jonah prayed that God caused the great fish to spit Jonah out onto the beach.

Several days have been spent reflecting on this one verse and prayer. Jonah reminds me God is there in heaven but more so, He is here with me on earth and He hears me when I pray.

Jonah reminds me that we pray because we must. We pray because –

• Prayer is the only way to have peace when the world around us is in turmoil.
• Prayer calms us when we feel overwhelmed or stretched by the tasks and responsibilities at hand.
• Prayer helps us gain perspective and purpose.
• Prayer brings guidance so we stay the course.

Jonah cried out to God in prayer for help, for his life, and for God’s Presence to remain with him. His prayer reminds us we can do the same. God is never too far from us, nor unable to hear our cries.

“But in my distress I cried out to the Lord; yes, I prayed to my God for help. He heard me from his sanctuary; my cry to him reached his ears.” (Psalm 18:6, NLT)

We pray because He hears and answers us.