Obedience · 2-minute bedtime story
Jonah and the Big Fish
A child-friendly retelling · Jonah 1–3 · KJV source
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Jonah runs away
God told Jonah to go to the city of Nineveh. But Jonah did not want to go. He got on a ship sailing the other way.
For parents: the Bible account and full story
The Bible says a “great fish,” not specifically a whale. Jonah 4 shows Jonah was still unhappy about God’s mercy to Nineveh — a good talk for older children.
Read Jonah 1–3 in the KJVJonah runs away
God told Jonah to go to the city of Nineveh. But Jonah did not want to go. He got on a ship sailing the other way.
A great storm
God sent a great wind, and the sea became very stormy. Jonah told the sailors, “Cast me forth into the sea,” and the sea became calm.
A great fish
The LORD had prepared a great fish to swallow up Jonah. Jonah was in the belly of the fish three days and three nights.
Jonah prays
Inside the fish, Jonah prayed to God and thanked him. Then the LORD spoke to the fish, and it put Jonah out on dry land.
A second chance
God told Jonah again to go to Nineveh, and this time Jonah went. The people turned from their wicked ways, and God showed them mercy.
God gives second chances.
What can we do when we have not listened to God?
Dear God, thank you that you forgive us. Help us listen to you and obey. Amen.