Date: Saturday, 3rd January, 2026
Text: Jonah 1:1–17
Author: Pastor Adedeji Fadehan
Exhortation:
The story of Jonah is rich with deep spiritual lessons. The fleeing prophet carried a clear call of God upon his life, yet he chose the path of disobedience and went his own way—and the judgment of God followed. If that were all, the story would have been straightforward.
However, the narrative becomes more sobering when we see that Jonah’s personal disobedience brought severe consequences upon those who journeyed with him. The sailors on his ship suffered great losses as they struggled to manage the violent storm. They exhausted every natural and professional effort to save the situation, yet the storm only grew fiercer.
When a human or demonic enemy attacks, one can cry to God for deliverance. But when it is God Himself who is contending, who then can intervene? The storm that confronted Jonah was personally sent by God (Jonah 1:4), making his situation both unique and dangerous for everyone around him.
The only workable solution was the removal of Jonah from the ship. This year, you must be willing to identify and separate from your “Jonahs” if you do not want to suffer avoidable losses. God’s desire is that you do not suffer loss, but wisdom demands precaution.
Beware of those you journey with in 2026. Not everyone should be on your ship. Not everyone shares your vision, values, or divine assignment. Be discerning and spiritually sensitive. As you walk in wisdom, you will land safely this year—not with losses, but with great gains, in Jesus’ name.
Prayer Nugget: Father, in the name of Jesus, deliver me from associations that attract divine contention, and align my journey with people who advance your purpose for my destiny, in Jesus’ name.
Bible in One Year: Genesis 9-12