Sadly,
it is possible to be living in the promised land yet living in
disobedience and thus losing out on the promised blessing. The Pharisee,
in Jesus’ parable, lived and worshipped within the tradition which
remembered God’s mighty act of redemption. Nevertheless, his heart was
far from God. He considered himself superior, He was not justified, and
he would not be exalted (glorified). Those who are justified, who will
be glorified, rejoice in the Lord with much gladness: “Sing praises to
God, sing praises; sing praises to our King, sing praises” (Psalm 47:6).
There is to be prayer from “every one who lives in the land” (Joel 1:14). It is to be personal prayer - “O Lord, I cry to You for help!” (Joel 1:19). These two belong together - prayer for the nation and personal prayer. This is expressed so well in the words: “O Holy Ghost, revival comes from Thee. Send a revival. Start the work in me.” We hear the words, “Return to the Lord, your God” (Joel 2:13). They are followed by some wonderful words about the character of God - “He is merciful and compassionate, patient and always ready to forgive and to change His plans about disaster” (Joel 2:13). How do we know that God is like this? We look at what He has done for us - “Be glad and rejoice. The Lord has done great things!” (Joel 2:21). Looking at all that the Lord has done for us, we trust His promise: “Whoever calls on the Name of the Lord will be saved” (Joel 2:32). This salvation is more than forgiveness for past sins. It’s more than the future glory of being in God’s ev...
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