A Message for Our Generation

Isaiah received visions “during the reigns of Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz and Hezekiah.” Jeremiah heard from God at specific times, including “in the days of Josiah the son of Amon, king of Judah, in the thirteenth year of his reign.” Most other prophets also identified where they were born and lived, who was king, and the circumstances surrounding the messages God spoke through them.

But Joel’s prophecy was unique. Here there is no identification, no reference to time, and no mention of kings or kingdoms. The circumstances suggest that he lived around the turn of the 9th century BC. Yet his prophecies also seem timeless, and his words seem fresh today.

As Joel appealed to his audience, we, too, need a wake-up call. We must realize what has happened in our country and the world. As in his era, we need to see how sin has ravaged our land and how we have allowed godlessness to reign. We, too, must recognize our need to change, repent, pray, seek God’s face, humble ourselves, recognize our sins, and cry out for His forgiveness and mercy.

God’s Word tells us that His “loving kindnesses indeed never cease, for His compassions never fail. They are new every morning” (Lamentations 3:22-23). As Joel reminds us, God is ready to heal, forgive, and restore. But as in the days of Joel, He waits to see our response.

Listen to Joel’s message, and realize how much it applies to our time. Humble yourself before God. Seek His face. Cry out for His mercy. Return to Him!