Chasing WHALES - a spiritual dive with Jonah

Have you been struggling to study the Bible?
Are you looking for an opportunity to grow in your ability to discern God's will?
Has your faith walk hit a bit of a low point?

This book will teach you about the incredible "story behind the story" from the Book of Jonah. As you dive in, you'll discover the relevance of Jonah's rebellious story to today's world; and, you will also:

• learn how to study the Bible
• grow in your ability to discern God's will
• practice spiritual disciplines
• learn how to pray & fast
• develop a deeper understanding of scripture
• be challenged to apply God's Word to your life in the most practical and tangible ways

Before you stumble in your faith and run the other way, like Jonah, join us in this immersive study from the Old Testament. Chasing WHALES starts off by teaching an in depth method of Christian Bible Study through an 9-part devotional. The devotional can be done daily, weekly, or online in community with our Facebook Group (just search Chasing WHALES group on Facebook to join). The devotional section also makes a great small group study for churches.

The back of the book takes your study deeper by providing an in-depth examination of the Book of Jonah. It teaches the reader how to think critically about scripture and introduces basic methods of exegesis, or critical examination of the text. If you are a small group leader, you might want to read that section as part of your preparation. Otherwise, save it for your personal reflection time.

Jonah's persistence in running away is why he is often called the stubborn prophet.
His anger at change, coupled with his prejudice against outsiders, make his story incredibly relevant today.

In Jonah, we see a believer rebelling against God's commands.
We see anger and defiance in the prophet's words and actions.
Ultimately, we see ourselves.

Yet, from Jonah's example, we learn deep truths about God's timeless character. His mercy and love shine even during our times of deepest anguish. As you explore the depths of God's truth, found in Jonah's story, may you be changed and may you be challenged to share the love of Christ with others.

"Michael Chanley offers us a challenging method for actually living the message of Jonah in a world on the run from God. It's time to come home to His summons on your life, and Chanley, sympathetic tutor that he is, will help you navigate these treacherous waters with thoughtful commentary and penetrating questions."
- Neal Windham, Professor Emeritus, Lincoln Christian University

"Michael understands the pulse of society, and he combines that knowledge with a deep understanding of scripture. The result is a powerful book that is easily applicable to our lives today. While many people are aware of the Biblical account of Jonah and the big fish, few are able to see it as more than just a cool story that inspired a scene in Pinocchio. Michael does a fantastic job really bringing this text to life and helping us to process it and apply its wisdom and truths to our 21st-century lives. The Brilliance of this book is, that by reading it, you will not only help your understanding of the book of Jonah, you will also become better equipped to study the Bible as a whole."
- Brad Tate, Pastor, Agape City Church

"Michael Chanley offers a practical dive into biblical literature as he invites the reader on a journey through the book of Jonah. He provides an incredibly thorough exegetical study alongside personal devotions to encourage spiritual growth among believers."
- Caleb Brown, Young Adult Pastor, Northside Christian Church