Experiencing Crisis
Joel 1:1-2:17: Matthew 11:20-24
The little Book of Joel Old Testament prophet presents a national crisis. The message is clear times were difficult and God was involved with His chosen people, but things need to change! Joel 1:1-2:17 There is a crisis experienced, a call to repentance and the closeness of “Day of the Lord”.
CRISIS EXPERIENCED JOEL 1:1-12 INSTRUCTION TO BE FOLLOWED
Hear this!!! Take seriously the events. Elders or leaders listen carefully. This is a unique time in your life or in your father’s life. Instructions tell or talk to your children, grandchildren and great grandchildren this is vital! Joel 2:25 describes the locusts as “my great army, I sent them among you!” Wake up, drunkards the sin of drunkenness is spotlighted, but it’s broader to include self-indulgent. Mourn and lament v8-12 A passionate expression of sorrow and grief.
CALL TO REPENTANCE: JOEL 1:13-20 ACTIONS TO BE TAKEN
Priests called to lead mourning. They are ministers of the people before God and God before the people. Declare a fast get serious before God. Summons the leaders to the Lord’s house. Address God with sorrow. Plan for the Day of the Lord: Central theme of Joel describes a time when God “comes down” in a dramatic way to bring wrath and judgement on the wicked and salvation to the righteous. It’s a day of deliverance and restoration for the righteous. Jesus in Matthew 11:20-24 God actions can’t be ignored! Personal Response:1:19-20 It not priest and elders, farmers and vine dresser, or shepherds’ problem. Sin and rebellion toward God is everyone’s problem only solved by God’s grace.
CLOSENESS OF DARKNESS: SOUND THE SHOW PAR JOEL 2:1-17
Sound a warning. Supply an understanding God’s involved in everything. DAY OF THE LORD is darkness not only lack of light, but darkness of the soul, mind and spirit. Darkness of limited hope. Strength comes as people “return” to God with their heart. Show repentance not symbolic actions. Surrender to God’s grace Spare us is our prayer. Sustain your name. All the people of earth see presence.
Crisis can have two outcomes you can become bitter toward people, processes and the plan God has for your life. The heart sours toward God. Producing a wounded soul and spirit. Secondly, crisis can make us better soften our heart toward others. Enrich our soul as we trust in God in all circumstances of life. Joel 1:10-20 sets the standard it’s a personal response and responsibility