Joel

A Study Guide for Turning Back to God in Crisis

Joel was a prophet in Judah, likely ministering sometime between 800–400 BC.
The exact date is uncertain, but the message is timeless: a national disaster leads to a spiritual wake-up call.
A devastating locust plague becomes a picture of coming judgment and an invitation to repentance.

Reflection: God often uses crisis to get our attention—so we can return to Him before greater judgment falls.

A swarm of locusts destroys crops, food, and hope—crippling the nation’s economy and future.
Joel calls for mourning, fasting, and repentance.
The “Day of the Lord” is introduced—not just a bad day, but a day when God brings judgment or deliverance.

Takeaway: When everything falls apart, God’s goal is not punishment alone—it’s repentance and restoration.

A coming army (possibly literal or symbolic) is portrayed as another “Day of the Lord.”
Yet God’s message is clear: “Return to me with all your heart… for He is gracious and merciful” (Joel 2:12–13).
True repentance is more than words—it’s a heart turning back to God.

Lesson: God would rather forgive than punish. He calls us back—not to crush us, but to restore us.

When the people repent, God relents.
Promises follow: healing of the land, restoration of crops, and renewed favor.
“I will restore to you the years that the swarming locust has eaten…” (Joel 2:25).

Encouragement: No matter what’s been lost, God can restore what sin and sorrow have consumed.

A powerful prophecy: “I will pour out my Spirit on all flesh…”
Sons and daughters will prophesy, old men will dream dreams, young men will see visions.
This was fulfilled in Acts 2 on the day of Pentecost.

Truth: God’s Spirit is not just for the prophets—but for all who call on the name of the Lord.

God promises to judge the nations who oppressed His people.
A picture of the Valley of Jehoshaphat—a place of final judgment.
For God’s people, the Lord will be a refuge, and Jerusalem will be holy once more.

Hope: Those who trust in the Lord have nothing to fear on the Day of the Lord—it will be their deliverance.

Joel 1:14 – “Declare a holy fast; call a sacred assembly. Summon the elders…”
Joel 2:12–13 – “Return to me with all your heart… for He is gracious and merciful…”
Joel 2:25 – “I will restore to you the years that the swarming locust has eaten…”
Joel 2:28 – “I will pour out my Spirit on all flesh…”
Joel 2:32 – “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved.”