You brought up my life from the pit.

Jonah 2:5-7, The waters closed in over me to take my life; the deep surrounded me; weeds were wrapped about my head at the roots of the mountains. I went down to the land whose bars closed upon me forever; yet you brought up my life from the pit, O Lord my God. When my life was fainting away, I remembered the Lord, and my prayer came to you, into your holy temple.

Jonah was in a hopeless situation, cast into the deep to die, then swallowed up in a large fish, unable to rescue himself. Jesus said that just as Jonah was in the belly of the fish three days and three nights, so would He be in the heart of the earth. No matter what happens in this life, we know that He is able to come to our aid, for He has been “tempted in all things as we are, yet without sin.” It’s easy to get distracted in this world, and sometimes we give in to temptation even though He promises a way out that is always available to us. Even so, He is always faithful and ready to receive our prayer. And best of all He has ensured eternal life for us in Christ Jesus!

We thank You that You hear our prayer and that in Christ Jesus You have brought up our lives from the pit and into Your presence! Give us Your strength and wisdom for all that we do today, O Lord!

ESV Lectionary