The Old Testament’s prophetic books are often confusing to read because there are frequent references to places or events that the casual reader of the Bible may not be familiar with. Moreover, prophets like Joel often write about God’s judgment or pending punishment like in Joel 2:1b – “Let all who live in the land tremble, for the day of the LORD is coming…”
As a result, many Christians, and even more critics of the faith, dismiss these obscure books as focusing too much on God’s hatred of evil and the natural consequences that follow, and not enough on his love for humanity.
Sadly, what people miss out on are the powerful verses and passages interspersed throughout these books that reveal God’s true heart. Oh, how he longs to rescue individuals from their lives of despair and tragedy – that’s what God is truly like!
How do we know this to be true? All we need to do is recognize that God showed himself in the most radically loving way possible by sending his Son to die on our behalf, relenting from the calamity that was coming our way. The calamity of our sinful nature blocking us from a right relationship with our amazing, gracious, and compassionate God is no longer. Jesus has bridged that gap.
Walk across the bridge today and experience who God is really like.
Dear God, you are so compassionate with me, far beyond my understanding. I can never thank You enough for the love you showed me on the cross. Please help me to see that love when life gets difficult, and I think you are unfair. Amen.
Go Deeper — What characteristic of God means the most to you? Will you take the time to thank him for that today?
Photo Credit: Alex Azabache