“When my life was fainting away, I remembered the Lord, and my prayer came to you, into your holy temple.” Jonah 2:7
When Jonah Hit Rock Bottom
The prodigal son had to lose everything before he could “come to himself.” In a similar way, Jonah had to reach his lowest point. He found himself in the dark belly of a great fish.
Only then did Jonah remember the Lord and call out to Him.
A Painful Turning Point
My husband also reached a very low point when he was 26. He lost his job in a painful and embarrassing way. Soon afterward, he fell into a deep depression.
We used our small savings to move to a larger city. We hoped he would find better work there. However, his depression made the search difficult. He could only manage a part-time security job.
As his pain grew, so did his anger. His harsh words deeply hurt me. Finally, I took our two-year-old son and moved out.
The Wake-Up Call He Needed
Our leaving gave my husband the shock he needed. At last, he realized that he had hit rock bottom.
He humbled himself and returned to the Lord. In addition, he agreed to meet with a marriage counsellor.
Over the next several weeks, we talked and prayed together every day. Eventually, we renewed our marriage vows. By God’s grace, we have now been happily married for more than forty years.
Looking Up From the Lowest Point
People hit rock bottom when they reach the lowest point in their lives. At that moment, they may feel they have nothing left to lose.
For some people, this becomes a place of clear vision. They begin to understand themselves and their situation. More importantly, they see how much they need God’s love and mercy.
God can reach into the deepest pit. He can restore hope, guide us forward, and help us begin again.
If you are facing what seems like a hopeless situation, look up. Jesus is present, and He is reaching down to lift you.
A Prayer for Hope
Lord, may I never have to hit rock bottom before I see You clearly. However, if I lose my way in the darkness, help me look up. Remind me that You are near, and lead me back to You. Amen.
By Katy Huth Jones
Used by Permission
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