When Life Feels Broken: A 5-Day Devotional on JoelSample

Do you ever feel stuck in sin? You have the desire to change, but seem to be in this never-ending cycle of sin, shame, and despair.

In chapter 2, we see Joel call God’s people to repentance that leads to true life change. Joel tells them about a coming “day of the Lord.” This phrase referred to a day when God would bring judgment for sin and hold His people accountable. That may sound scary, but Joel reminds them that God’s goal isn’t to destroy His people — it’s to call them back. He doesn’t want fake religion or half-hearted obedience. He wants real repentance, hearts fully turned toward Him. Repentance means more than just saying, “I’m sorry.” It means turning from sin and running back to God.

That might mean more than just feeling bad about messing up. It means choosing to give Jesus every part of your life — your words, your thoughts, your habits, your relationships. God wants all of you, not just a piece. In what area of your life do you struggle to give to Jesus?

Christ Connection

In Mark 1:15, as Jesus begins His ministry, He invites us to believe in the Gospel that saves. Throughout the Bible, we see that God sent His son to pay the debt that we owed by dying on the cross

Ask

What part of my life do I need to surrender fully to Jesus?

Pray

Jesus, thank You for loving me enough to call me back when I wander. If there are areas of my life I’m holding back, please show them to me. I don’t want to give You half of my heart — I want to be fully Yours. Give me the courage to repent and change direction when I’ve been going the wrong way. Thank You for always welcoming me with grace and forgiveness. Help me live with a heart that is soft toward You and ready to obey.

Try This

Practice repentance today by turning from sin and turning to Christ. Confess your struggles to someone close to you and invite them to help you walk in obedience.