Scripture Reading: Jonah 3:1-10

Key Verse:

Jonah 3:5

The Ninevites believed God. A fast was proclaimed, and all of them, from the greatest to the least, put on sackcloth.

Though Jonah declared that the Ninevites had 40 days to turn from their wickedness, the Ninevite did not wait to test God’s mercy. They responded immediately. The people of Nineveh believe in God by proclaiming a fast and covered themselves with sackcloth. This was a visible sign of repentance and acknowledgement of sin. They took His word and turned from their evil ways. As a result, God relented, which means that He withheld His threatened judgement.

One of the key biblical reasons for fasting is to express repentance and sorrow for sin. Confess your wrongdoings to the Lord today in fasting and praying. He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness (1 John 1:9).

Prayer Points

• What are some areas in your life where God is calling you to repentance? Ask God to humble your heart towards His corrections and confess your sins to Him.
• Receive God’s forgiveness over your sins and thank God for His cleansing work in your life.