In John 4, we read about the overcoming of our enemies through the Gospel. “Jews do not associate with the Samaritans” (John 4:9).
Jesus did associate with the Samaritan woman. The woman believed in
Jesus. Many others believed in Him. By breaking down the barrier between
Jews and Samaritans, Jesus was not minimizing the difference between
the godly and the ungodly. He was emphasizing that “he who sows
righteousness reaps a sure reward” (Proverbs 11:18). As He spoke the Word of God’s love, many were brought to faith in Him (John 4:39).
When the Gospel of God’s love reaches our hearts, we do not continue in
sin, going our own way rather than the Lord’s way. We come in our sin
to the Saviour. We receive His forgiveness. We begin a new life – “It is
no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me” (Galatians 2:20).
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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