A Generational Message

“Hear this … all you inhabitants of the land! Has anything like this happened in your days, or even in the days of your fathers? Tell your children about it, let your children tell their children, and their children another generation.” – Joel 1:2-3

Most prophets identified where they were born and lived, who was king, and the circumstances under which they heard from God. For example, Isaiah received visions during the reign of Uzziah (Isaiah 1:1). Jeremiah heard from God in the days of Jehoiakim (Jeremiah 25:1).

But Joel’s prophecies were unique. His book has no external identification. He does not reference kings. The circumstances suggest he lived around the turn of the ninth century BC, yet his prophecies also seem timeless, and his words seem to apply to all generations.

As Joel asked of his readers, we need to look around and see the impact of godlessness. Then we will see what happens when people reject God and deny His Word. We will see what happens when sin is accepted.

We too need a wake-up call. Recognize the need to change and repent of our sins. Pray and seek God’s face, humble ourselves before Him, and cry out for His forgiveness and mercy.

It’s not too late. God’s Word tells us His compassions never fail but “are new every morning” (Lamentations 3:23). As Joel reminded us, God is ready to heal us, forgive us, and restore us. But as in the days of Joel, He waits to see our response.

Listen to Joel’s message. Humble yourself before God. Seek His face. Cry out for His mercy. Pray for an outpouring of His Spirit. Pray that our generation will return to Him!

Reflection Question: What’s your response to God’s calling in your life and your nation?