We are continuing a 6-week sermon series on The Book of Jonah by Eric Mason on RightNow Media. Jonah is one of the twelve minor prophets. The book is small in size but it is power-packed to impact your life.

Read Jonah 4: 5-11.

1. Eric Mason begins this week’s video session saying, “God is seeking to cover us with His mercy, cover us with His grace, cover us with His love. And the purpose of Him covering us is for our hearts to be changed, but also for our disposition to change toward others.” What does it mean for God to “cover” us in these ways? How does this change our hearts and our disposition toward others?

2. What was Jonah’s reaction when God provided the plant? What was his reaction when God took the plant away? What does this tell us about Jonah’s spiritual condition?

3. In what ways were the worm and the scorching wind gifts to Jonah? (Hint: discomfort)

4. Why does God sometimes give us “gifts of discomfort”? What does God want these “gifts” to accomplish in our lives?

5. Pastor Mick said this week’s study guide was on point in saying, “By saving us, God has called us into His work of reconciling the world to Himself.” How is Jonah responding to this grace and call, or not? How are you responding?

6. Pastor Mick said Jonah’s story was “To Be Continued.” In what way is your story “To Be Continued” as well? How is Jesus’ mission “To Be Continued” through us?

7. How can you use the upcoming Lenten Season to discern new ways in which God is calling you to “continue” His mission?

Prayer for the Week:
Almighty God, thank you for all of the gifts you pour out upon us each and every day: gifts of comfort and gifts of discomfort. May we allow all of these gifts to lead us into a deeper, more intimate, relationship with you. And as we accept your greatest gift to us, the gift of grace offered through the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross, may we respond enthusiastically to the work of reconciliation you have given us. Help us to truly be your good and faithful servants working to share your love, mercy and grace with the whole world. Continue to inspire us and empower us, through your Holy Spirit, to find new ways of reaching new people for the advancement of your kingdom and the transformation of the world. We love you so much, and we pray all of this in the strong name of Jesus, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, One God, now and forever. Amen.