29 November 2015
Our God Reigns!
What a glorious ending to Prophet Joel’s prophecy! A picture of abundance is painted as the Joel preaches about what is to come upon the LORD’s people – overflowing blessings is promised as the mountains drip with new wine, hills flow with milk and ravines running with water.
God once again re-establishes his faithfulness to the chosen ones who honour Him. Just as the extent of fear the disobedient has upon His Second Coming, so great is the extent of joy and blessing the obedient children will enjoy in His presence. Upon His return, His longstanding covenant made at the start with Abraham, is fulfilled. “I will make you a great nation; I will bless you and make your name great; and you shall be a blessing. I will bless those who bless you, and I will curse him who curses you; and in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed.” (Genesis 12:2-3) – this covenant with His children, He did not forget. Prophet Joel reminds us of the glorious victory Abraham’s children will have when our God reigns. The LORD’s glory is restored as His people is avenged, protected and blessed.
Nevertheless, as we rejoice with Israel’s victory in the Millenial Kingdom, we are reminded of God’s loving and compassionate nature. Just as He is compassionate to His people who have turned away from Him time and time again, He also extends His compassion to the people of Egypt and Edom, to all who have turned against Him, as He sent Joel to warn them of what is to come. In His holiness, He judges, but in His compassion, He provides the way to life. He warns the wicked while He assures His people that He is on their side for He is their sure and steadfast Avenger.
God shows compassion in spite of our sin when there is real contrition and repentance. Even as we read about the blessings and judgment of the LORD in Joel’s prophecy, may the LORD search our hearts and see if there be any hurtful way in us, that we may be led in the way everlasting.
“Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts.
See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.”
(Psalm 139:23-24)
