Joel

In the book of Joel there is suffering and redemption. Verse twelve states "'Even now,' declares the LORD, 'return to me with all your heart, with fasting and weeping and mourning.'"

Even after all the suffering, the LORD is telling His children to return to him! To rend their hearts and humble themselves through fasting and weeping and in mourning. What a powerful verse that applies to this very second of my life.

In previous posts, I've talked about a wonderful man that is dying of lung cancer. And even now I am weeping and mourning because the days are few and it's a sickening feeling just to wait for a phone call of confirmation. This past week, I've lost my student I.D. card, and my debit card. I've felt as if I've fallen apart, only caring about the one phone call so much that I am absent minded towards life itself. And it feels as if with everyday comes another thing that is lost whether it is something that is tangible or if it's hope or happiness.

I'm in awe that reading Joel was so much of an encouragement to me. I feel better just for taking the time to read it. I believe that every time you open the Word, you will see words that will benefit your life in that moment. For the book of Joel, not only is there judgement but there is a day of hope as well.

Often we only stage ourselves on the weeping/mourning aspect of life. Sometimes our problems are the only thing we see. We become consumed by the depression and our heads are never lifted; they only continually stare at the floor. However, what if we fasted and prayed when the times of famine came in our lives? When the locusts come to devour our happiness and content lifestyles, what actions do we take?

If only we took the "Even now" step. Even now in the midst of death and destruction, would we only lift our heads up towards Heaven, I'm sure our suffering would not last as long, and even if we still suffered, at least we would have hope in something more than what our earthly abilities are.

Even now, I will try and recoup. Even now, I will try to lift my hands and praise Him. Even now will I return to Him, weeping and mourning and just trying to get closer in His arms. Even now, I will just try to look up.

Because trying is the only way we get the results we need. God has not called me - or you - to a life of perfection. He has called us to a relationship with Him. One that is full of tryings. We might fall, but we will fall right back into His hands. I take comfort and try to delight in Him who has created me.