Whale, I Didn't See That Coming: Really God?

Jun 28, 2026    Garry Firth

1. Have you ever had an over-the-top reaction to something really small? Maybe it was waiting in a long line, someone cutting you off in traffic, a slow internet connection, or your coffee order getting messed up. What happened, and can you laugh about it now?


Read Jonah chapter 4.


2. Jonah was angry because God showed mercy to people Jonah believed didn't deserve it. Why do you think it's often easier to receive God's grace for ourselves than to celebrate it when it's given to someone else?


3. Garry shared about silently judging people while standing in line at Starbucks. Have you ever caught yourself making assumptions about someone you didn't actually know? What did you learn from that experience?


4. God asked Jonah, "Is it right for you to be angry?" What do you think God might be asking you through that question? Is there a situation or person where your anger or resentment may be keeping you from seeing them the way God does?


5. The message reminds us that God provided everything Jonah needed - including second chances - and ultimately provided Jesus for us. How does remembering God's grace toward you change the way you think about people who have hurt you, frustrated you, or seem undeserving?


6. Garry ended the message and series by saying, "Nanaimo is our Nineveh," challenging us to bless rather than judge the people around us. What is one practical way you can intentionally bless someone this week instead of judging them–whether it's a neighbour, coworker, family member, stranger, or someone you normally avoid?