| Good Morning Everyone, Our theme for this month: “The power of hope” Our Bible verse for today: “Behold, I will send you grain and new wine and oil, and you will be satisfied by them … So I will restore to you the years that the swarming locust has eaten.” Joel 2:19; 25 (NKJV) Our thought for today: “Begin today to make a better tomorrow.” In the time of the Old Testament prophet Joel, the nation of Judah was devastated. Locust, like an invading army, had destroyed the crops. There was also a severe drought, and all of it was the nation’s own fault. God had sent the plagues as punishment for their disobedience and idolatry. They brought it all on themselves. But then in the middle of chapter two Joel turns his attention to the not-to-distant future, to a time when the people would recognize their sinful ways, truly repent of their sins, and once again experience the blessings of God in their lives. Once they had turned back to Him, God would then send them grain, new wine, more oil, and they would be satisfied. He would restore to them the years the locust had eaten. During my years as a Pastor I’ve known many people who have suffered greatly as a result of their own poor choices. Some have lost everything due to alcohol or drug addictions. Others have ruined their marriages through adultery. Some have lost good jobs because of poor job performance. Others have gone to prison for illegal activities. But then in the midst of their misery and suffering they repented of their sins, turned back to Jesus, and began to experience the renewal and blessings that come with a life lived in obedience to the Lord. It’s always a joy to watch as the Lord begins to restore to them the years the locust of addiction, unfaithfulness, and criminal activities have eaten away. God heals, restores, and blesses to the point that soon, life is good again. Maria Robinson once wrote “Nobody can go back and start a new beginning, but anyone can start today and make a new ending.” No matter what your past has been like, regardless of what your present situation is, your future can be wonderful if you live it with the Lord. You can begin today to make a better tomorrow. With the Lord there is always hope for a better tomorrow because He can restore the years the locusts have eaten. God Bless, Pastor Jim |
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