Read: Joel 2:18-27
You shall know that I am in the midst of Israel, and that I am the LORD your God and there is none else. (v. 27)
One of the scariest experiences I’ve had was lying in bed as a hurricane raged outside our home all night. Surprisingly, when I opened our front door the next morning the sky was a brighter blue and the air was cleaner than any day I had seen before. Other than the trees and debris that were scattered about, one would never suspect the fierce destruction that had occurred just hours before.
Our passage today marks a significant turn in Joel’s prophecy, from the devastation that will occur on the day of the Lord to prophesying God’s abundant blessings for the repentant people. God will send grain, new wine, and oil to replace the damage done to the crops by the locusts so that they will have plenty to eat. The animals will have open pasture and the land will be fruitful. All creation will be restored. It will be a beautiful day indeed, with no evidence of the destruction that came before. But why? God says he will do this so the people will know that he is the Lord their God. God is recalling the covenant he made with them at Mount Sinai and reminding them that he is faithful to his promises.
What storms are you facing in your life? Be encouraged that as you remain faithful, God is also faithful. A beautiful day of restoration is coming for you. —Kelly Slaybaugh
As you pray, thank our loving God for his faithfulness and his promised restoration.
About the Author
Kelly Slaybaugh lives in Wake Forest, North Carolina, is a student at Asbury Theological Seminary, and an “empty nester.” She loves connecting with God through nature and outdoor activities.
