SUMMARY: Instructions
OVERVIEW: The land is devastated by a locust plague, and Joel wants the people to respond in humility to God.
BIG IDEA: Mourn for and acknowledge the pain and destruction of sin, not just its consequences.
KEY VERSE: Joel 1:14 (God to Joel)
Announce a time of fasting; call the people together for a solemn meeting. Bring the leaders and all the people of the land into the Temple of the Lord your God, and cry out to him there.
IF GOD WROTE YOU A LETTER
Don’t miss what I am doing in your life. Seek me and listen to my instructions. Be aware of what is happening in your mind and your body and your circumstances. Have eyes to see and ears to hear. Wake up and be alert! Don’t ignore pain or anxiety, hoping it goes away.
Mourn over painful things. Grieve for the loss in your life. Do not put on a happy face, pretending everything is alright. Cry out to me. Share your thoughts and feelings with those you care about. Invite others to pray with you. Cry out to me together. Let those who love you stand with you and walk with you. Let them love you, just as you would support them. But direct your energy and effort to me. Invite me to bring healing in your life and comfort to your soul. I love you and will provide for you, and I want you to receive support and love from your family and friends, as well.
NEXT STEP
Pay attention to what God is doing or allowing in your life. Don’t wait for things to get worse. Call on God today. Identify specific prayer needs, present them to God, and ask others to pray for you, too.
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