This Week's Devotional | 2004
Devotionals | 2005 Devotionals
Devotional
For the Week 4th October 2004
The
Promise
Scripture
Reference:
Joel 2:1-32
This world is run on perceptions. You believe what you want, and I'll
believe what I want. Many people believe the end of this world is a
perception. Some believe that scientists will make it last forever.
But I say to you my friends, that this world is not run based on perceptions.
The Bible records that the world WILL end because of God's punishment
that is to come.
Perhaps you might ask, 'Why would a loving God deal punishment unto
His people?' Punishment exists because of disobedience. A God who doesn't
punish and lets sin run rampant without consequence, is not a just and
loving God.
God's cry of
judgment
The Scriptures,
from Joel 2:1-11, speak of the terrible Day of the Lord that will come
upon the nation of Israel, in punishment for its sins. That day too,
will come for all of humanity, when He comes again to destroy this world,
in punishment for its sins too. Let us not be people who scoff at the
day of His coming, assuming it will never come. But rather heed His
warning, so that we might live seriously for Him today. Think about
it this way. If you had children, and you had to go away on a long business
trip, and you were close enough to them, they should be anticipating
your return, rather than thinking, 'I hope that daddy or mummy doesn't
come home so soon.'
God's call to
repentance
From v.12-18
onwards, God's tone of voice changes from one of fury to that of being,
almost a plea unto His children. He calls out to His children in v.12,
to turn to Him, while there is still time. And this repentance that
He seeks, is one that is inward and not outward, for He asks that we
rend our hearts (inward repentance) and not just tear our clothing (outward
sign of repentance), in v.13. Rest assured that if you turn your heart
to God in repentance, He will turn His face towards you again.
God's promise
of hope
From v.18-32,
from warnings of destruction, God promises hope. From declaration of
judgment, He offers blessing. All this, motivated by our repentance!
Friends, we have a God who loves us so much, that He looks forward to
the day that He can give us a new heaven and earth.
Reflection
Joel 2 captures
God's eternal cry unto His people, from warnings of punishment, He turns
to give one last plea for His people to repent and with it, He offers
His promise of restoration and healing. Let us come to Him today. Repent
for not living our lives as we should have all these years, and begin
living for Him today. Because He is the only God worth living for. The
blood flowing out of Jesus' nail-pierced hands and feet says it all
about His love for us. He is indeed the truth, the way and the life.
Come to Him.
- Ps Joel
Yong