PLEASE READ THIS FIRST: Joel 2:18-3
What do you sense the Lord saying to you in this passage?
“The Lord dwells in Zion!” (Joel 3:21)
Zion is one name for Jerusalem, the City of David, where the temple was.
The temple represented ‘God with us’, the close bond between God and his people.
Yet the events described prior to this suggest God is not helping.
A plague a locusts destroys the land, nations ravage the people, the city is ruined.
If the Lord is in Zion, then why are these terrible things happening.
Joel speaks mostly of God’s judgment of the enemies and restoration of Israel.
Many familiar quotes are found here: the valley of decision, the grapes of wrath.
Calling on the name to be saved, the Spirit poured out, the day of the Lord.
But they all make the same point: no matter what happens, the Lord is still here!
Don’t let hardship or suffering fool you, the Lord holds all things in his hands.
The ‘cross’ of misery and death won’t last; the ‘crown’ of victory will follow.
The Lord is still in charge, and we have his Spirit in us, working through us!
I’m encouraged to sense the Lord still with me, holding me through my own trials.
Through it all, wait for the Lord; he will show his wonders and set things right!
PRAYER
Lord, I cling to your presence over me, with me and in me. You are here, despite what is happening around us, and you WILL overcome evil!
The Lord s a Refuge for His people. A Stronghold. A mighty Tower. God with us.
And He will also bring us all to account. The day is coming nearer. He will judge the people for what they have done. God always give His people strength, also today for all who shelter beneath His wings.
1. God gives His people strength.
If we believe in His way, He’s swift to repay
All those who bear the burden of the day
God gives His people strength.
2. God gives His people hope
If we but trust in His word, our prayers are always heard
He warmly welcomes anyone who’s erred.
God gives His people hope.
3. God gives His people love
If we but open wide our hearts, He’s sure to do His part
He’s always the first to make a start.
God gives His people love.
4. God gives His people peace.
When sorrow fills us to the brim, and courage grows dim
He lays to rest our restlessness in Him.
God gives His people peace.
Though God will practice ‘tough love’ He remains faithful: “rejoice in the Lord your God,
for he has given you the autumn rains because he is faithful”. But what strikes me more importantly is this promise: “Even on my servants, both men and women, I will pour out my Spirit in those days.” I am in ‘those’ days and I feel His presence! Yet I know there will be judgement meted out – there will be accountability – but God is the gracious judge – and He will be fair!