QT 3 Sep 2020. Joel 2:25, It is still not too late to change

Joel 2:25 (ESV) — I will restore to you the years

that the swarming locust has eaten,

the hopper, the destroyer, and the cutter,

my great army, which I sent among you.

NOTE: This verse is used by many and probably out of context. It is a literal promise to the nation of Israel. But the verse has poetic beauty and it does correlate to other verses in scripture. God does make new things out of what the world has muddied.

• Acts 3:19–20 (ESV) — 19 Repent therefore, and turn back, that your sins may be blotted out, 20 that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord, and that he may send the Christ appointed for you, Jesus,
• Romans 8:21–23 (ESV) — 21 that the creation itself will be set free from its bondage to corruption and obtain the freedom of the glory of the children of God. 22 For we know that the whole creation has been groaning together in the pains of childbirth until now. 23 And not only the creation, but we ourselves, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for adoption as sons, the redemption of our bodies.
• Psalm 91:14–16 (ESV) — 14 “Because he holds fast to me in love, I will deliver him; I will protect him, because he knows my name. 15 When he calls to me, I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble; I will rescue him and honor him. 16 With long life I will satisfy him and show him my salvation.”
• 2 Corinthians 5:17 (ESV) — 17 Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.

So, the concept of restoration has deep biblical roots. It is never too late to return to God and begin a deep relationship with Jesus Christ. God longs to restore those who repent from the heart. Actually, there is a time where it is too late to return to God. The more we reject God's commands, the more hardened our heart becomes. During the tribulation, there will be events, such as the taking of the mark and the pledge of fealty to the antichrist that will be irrevocable decisions.

PRAYER: Father, thank you for forgiveness. Thank you for mercy. Thank you for the blood of Jesus Christ which cleanses us completely. We are unworthy of such a great salvation.