The name “Joel” means “the Lord is God.” Nothing is known about Joel, apart from the fact that he was the son of Pethuel and a native of Judah, possibly from Jerusalem. Yet another mystery is the date of Joel’s prophecies. Many people feel that Joel was written about 830 B.C., since the nations and conditions mentioned by Joel best match this period. “Also, the prophet Amos indicates an awareness of Joel in his prophecies.” ( Introduction to the Book of Joel, Amplified Bible New King James Version.) When a severe locust plague hits Judah, Joel uses that plague to warn people to repent. Joel warns that God is preparing to bring more stringent judgement.
Why study such a short book? Even though the Book of Joel only contains three chapters, it is packed with meaning. Some of the most oft – quoted promises in the Bible are found in Joel.
APPLICATION: Once more, God reminds us that there are no little people in His economy. Even though Joel is a short book and is considered a minor prophet, God can still use these verses to speak to us. Sometimes the shortest verses may prove to be the most meaningful and memorable.
We need to remember that Jesus came from a small town and that many of the towns in which He ministered were small towns. Many of Jesus’s disciples were fishermen. Many of the people who gathered on the hillsides above the Sea of Galilee came from the local villages. God cares about people from all kinds of places.
It’s possible that Joel’s prophecies hit hardest for those involved in agriculture. Only in heaven will we learn how many people actually repented after listening to Joel’s words.
PRAYER: Father God, thank You for loving us and caring for us. Lord, thank You for speaking to us through Your Word. Give us listening ears and understanding hearts. In the mighty and precious Name of Jesus. Amen.
Burunche's Blog 
May 12, 2023 at 12:03 pm
A Good Devotional! We served only small towns and rural churches except for one. Have you changed fonts in your devotionals? I used to open the chat one, and be able to enlarge it to read it. The new font is different. But the email version, I can still enlarge. Thank you for your faithfulness in sharing. God Bless, Martin and Anne Gutzmer