Return to the Lord: A Study in JoelSample

What does it say?

The Lord will restore Judah and Jerusalem and judge the nations at the Valley of Jehoshaphat for their mistreatment of Israel.

What does it mean?

Joel described a coming day of worldwide judgment, the last great battle of the Tribulation (Rev. 14 and 16). The Sovereign Lord speaks to the nations who will gather to do battle against Israel. He also announces a message for His chosen people, Israel; the “day of the Lord” will be a day of deliverance, restoration, and blessing. For those nations who have treated Israel with violence and contempt, that day is a day of God’s wrath and judgment. During that time, the nation of Israel will recognize their covenant-keeping Lord, who will dwell with them as their King in Zion, the holy city.

How should I respond?

Those who have trusted Jesus Christ do not need to fear the “day of the Lord.” Your decision to receive Christ is your most important decision ever. One day the door to salvation will close, and then it will be too late. Have you settled the matter with your Creator? Those who think they are “good enough” need to look seriously at what God’s Word says. There are two options: separation from God or the offer of salvation. Both are forever. What choice have you made?