Joel 2:12-14 Therefore also now, said the LORD, turn you even to me with all your heart, and with fasting, and with weeping, and with mourning:… I. THE EXHORTATIONS TO THE PEOPLE TO RETURN UNTO THE LORD. "Turn ye even unto Me." What is the nation to turn from? Its evil ways. When we speak of the nation we speak of the individuals that compose the nation. The exhortation implies that the people had turned from God. Notice some of men's evil ways. 1. Ungodliness. Not one half of our nation makes any profession of godliness. And of those who name "the name of Jesus," how few depart from iniquity! 2. Hear the blasphemy which pervades the land. God's solemn message to man is mocked, His Word denied, His sanctuaries too much neglected. From all these evil ways we are called to return unto the Lord. II. THE DIRECTION FOR RETURNING TO THE LORD. "With all your heart." Here lies the main business — the heart. It must be solemnly and unreservedly dedicated to God. Without this internal movement, all outward show of obedience, or sorrow for sin, or repentance, or fasting, or prayer will avail nothing. This return of the heart is to be expressed by suitable "outward signs." With fasting. "With weeping and mourning." III. THE ENCOURAGEMENT PRESENTED TO THE PEOPLE TO RETURN TO GOD. "He is merciful and gracious." Every moment of the world's prolonged existence is a demonstration of God's long suffering and patience — is a practical commentary on His own Word. (E. Edwards.) Parallel Verses KJV: Therefore also now, saith the LORD, turn ye even to me with all your heart, and with fasting, and with weeping, and with mourning: |
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