Today is one of those special and fun days where we read an entire book in one sitting. The book of Joel features some weird stories, but also some beautiful prose that is pretty familiar to Christians. One such is a nod to the holy spirit and how it will come down to all people - women and men and servant alike. That was such a WILD thing to suggest, yet God made that come true on Pentecost. You'll also notice the ploughshares being turned into spears and pruning hooks to swords which will later be reversed as a sign that peace will win. Neat little nods to other books of the Bible, especially future ones always make reading the Bible chronologically a joy. I'd love to hear your thoughts, too!
Scripture to Read
Audio Bible
Questions to Consider
What does this reveal to me about God?
What does this reveal to me about humanity?
How is Joel's account of the Holy Spirit different from Pentecost? (Acts 2)
Additional context:
Whenever we start a new book I encourage you to also watch Bible Project's video as they do such an amazing job at offering a bigger picture to this whole thing.
Prayer
UMH 130 "God Will Take Care of You" (This seems fitting for today!)
1. Be not dismayed whate'er betide,
God will take care of you;
beneath his wings of love abide,
God will take care of you.
Refrain:
God will take care of you,
through every day, o'er all the way;
he will take care of you,
God will take care of you.
2. Through days of toil when heart doth fail,
God will take care of you;
when dangers fierce your path assail,
God will take care of you.
(Refrain)
3. All you may need he will provide,
God will take care of you;
nothing you ask will be denied,
God will take care of you.
(Refrain)
4. No matter what may be the test,
God will take care of you;
lean, weary one, upon his breast,
God will take care of you.
(Refrain)