God Blesses His People

Joel 3:9–21
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Joel lists four significant events toward which history has long been pointing: (1) The assembling of troops (vv. 9-11). Tools are turned into weapons as the nations assemble for battle (v. 10). The Lord destroys his enemies like a farmer harvesting his grain. (2) The judgment of the nations (vv. 12-14). The time for mercy has passed. Those to be judged will be almost numberless but the judgment given out will be precise and complete. (3) The signs in nature (v. 15). The sun moon and stars will withdraw their light and darkness will cover the earth. Something momentous is about to happen. (4) The returning Deliverer (v.16). Like a roaring lion the Lord will come out of Zion and will bring judgment upon His enemies. He will bring hope and strength to His people.

Billions of people have lived on earth, and every one of them, dead, living and yet to be born will face God’s judgment unless they have trusted Christ as their savior. After this awesome display of divine power all of Israel will know (1) Jehovah is God, (2) He is in their midst, (3) Jerusalem will never again be defiled, and (4) foreigners will never again invade Jerusalem (v. 17). The soil will become fertile, the rivers will be replenished with water, and a fountain springing from the renewed temple will irrigate the earth. This stream will be a constant reminder that the Lord is the source of the land’s fertility (Ezekiel 47:8-10). It will seem like wine is dripping from the mountains and milk will be just as plentiful (v. 18). In contrast, the land of Judah’s enemies will become desolate, because of their mistreatment of Judah (v. 19). The Lord will purify the people with whom He will abide and remove the blood stains of their suffering (v. 20). He will dwell forever in Zion (v. 21). Joel was trying to convince the people to wake up, get rid of their complacency and realize the danger of living apart from God. Those who turn to God will enjoy the blessings.

Application

The Lord wants to show His power in my life the same as He did in Joel’s day. He is the same God yesterday, today, and forever. No matter what circumstances may come into my life He is in our midst and will never allow me to have more severe trials than I can bear. (Proverbs 3:5-6). I need to pray for His power to be manifest in my life daily.