God Is The Same, He Doesn’t Change….

It’s easy when reading the OT to get the impression that God is more of a Judge than the compassionate Savior we read about in the NT. This is one thing I’ve learned reading through both books each year; God is the same, He doesn’t change. We just don’t get to see the compassionate, loving, merciful, and full of grace side of Him as much in the OT. It’s there, and it’s more often than you think, you just have to read it. Here in the book of Joel, we get a clear picture of this OT compassionate, grace-filled God we serve. More than anything else, God wants our attention; our 100% undivided, pure-heart attention. He only wants what’s best for us, and that starts with being honest with ourselves, giving credit where credit is due, and finally, doing it all with a sincere heart. That’s what God wants. It’s not hard, it just takes effort, effort most people don’t want to give. The trade off equals the abundant life (not the prosperity gospel version), but one of peace, purpose, and passion. An experience the world cannot give.

12 That is why the Lord says,“Turn to Me now, while there is time.Give Me your hearts.Come with fasting, weeping, and mourning.13 Don’t tear your clothing in your grief,but tear your hearts instead.”Return to the Lord your God,for He is merciful and compassionate,slow to get angry and filled with unfailing love.He is eager to relent and not punish. Joel 2:12-13