The first chapter of the book of Jonah is a very exciting chapter. Jonah is trying to run from a task the Lord has asked him to do. This is a great example of how fear can cause us to think irrationally. Jonah really thought He could run from God who is omnipresent by taking a boat. Really!!! When we let fear take hold of us instead of trusting God’s protection we can make some pretty crazy decisions. 

Chapter 1 also shows us that even when we are stumbling in our walk with God, He is still at work in the lives of those around us. 
As I read this chapter I imagine Jonah all wrapped up in his own drama debating his next move. Meanwhile, God in His infinite wisdom is dealing with Jonah’s disobedience AND using the whole situation to bring the rest of the crew of the ship to Himself. 

“(14)Then they cried out to the Lord, “Please, O Lord, we pray, do not let us perish on account of this man’s life. Do not make us guilty of innocent blood; for you, O Lord, have done as it pleased you.” So they picked Jonah up and threw him into the sea; and the sea ceased from its raging. Then the men feared the Lord even more, and they offered a sacrifice to the Lord and made vows.”
God used Jonah even when Jonah was at his worst. As God was teaching Jonah to be obedient, He was revealing Himself to others through the process. 
Sometimes I arrogantly think I am going to mess up God’s plan because I make a wrong decision or say something wrong. I couldn’t be more wrong. As we see in this chapter God is in control 100 percent of the time. I can be encouraged that even in the darkest most drama filled times in my life, God is still using my life to encourage others and revel Himself to them. 
Be encouraged that no matter what you are facing, God is actively involved in your life as well as the lives of those around you! Take comfort in His presence.