God’s Strengthening Word: Being Renewed by the Holy SpiritSample

Introduction

Joel 1:1–20: In this opening chapter, the prophet Joel describes a terrible invasion of locusts accompanied by a devastating drought. In these events, he sees a sign of the coming day of the LORD, a time when the LORD will punish those who oppose his righteous will.

Today’s Key Verse: Joel 1:14

Give orders for a fast; call an assembly! Gather the leaders and all the people of Judah into the Temple of the LORD your God and cry out to him!

Reflect

The ancient Near East, including Israel, relied on farming and herding, so an attack by locusts was a serious concern. If locusts devoured crops and plants, people and their animals could starve. How does Joel describe the effects of a devastating locust plague? What does he instruct the people to do (verses 13–14)? Have you or your community of faith ever felt called to fast and pray? If so, what were the circumstances?

Pray

Lord God, you are ever near and hear our cries. Draw me close to you and help me surmount any temptations or difficulties that I may face today. In your holy name, I pray. Amen.

Tomorrow’s Reading

Joel 2:1–17: The prophet Joel calls the people to repent.