A Lesson from the Locusts

Can you remember a time when you can see how the Lord was giving you a heads up that you needed to change your ways? Can you see warning signs that he posted for you, but you ignored them?
I can! In fact, when I look back over my past, I can see a lot of ways that the Lord tried to show me that my heart was impure and I needed to repent, but I just kept going. Our God is patient and merciful, but there comes a time when the patience ends and the punishment begins.

This is the case for the nation of Judah in the book of Joel. Joel was a prophet and he wrote a tiny little 3 chapter book in the Old Testament between the books, Hosea and Amos.

Judah had turned away from God. Big surprise, I know! They seemed to be stuck in a vicious cycle of sin until God sends another judge or prophet to show them their sinful ways. They just couldn't stick to the righteous lifestyle. They always wanted to be like the other nations, even though the other nations were God-less. So,God sent locust that devoured everything green in the land. The locusts were meant to be a warning sign that if they didn't clean up their act, much worse would follow.

In fact, there was an army on it's way that would destroy what the locust didn't eat.

The Lord says, "Turn to me now, while there is time. Give me all your hearts. Come with fasting, weeping, mourning. Let your remorse tear at your hearts and not your garments." Return to the Lord your God, for he is gracious and merciful. He is not easily angered; he is full of kindness, and anxious not to punish you. Joel 2:12&13 (NLT)

When God gives us a warning that we need to change our ways, and turn to Him, there is only one response...OBEDIENCE!

Do you see warning signs now flashing before you? The Lord was clear as to what the people needed to do in response to his warning.

"Everyone who calls upon the name of the Lord will be saved." Joel 2:32a

Take a lesson from the locusts and recognize the warning signs that the Lord is placing in your life. He wants to bless you and restore what the locusts have eaten, but we don't receive his blessing until we have repented and return to Him. Amazing blessings are in store for you!