Joel 2

Ver. 1, 2, 10, 11, 30, 31. The devastations of the locusts, and the dreadful destruction of the Jews by the Romans, are described in this awful manner, because the former presaged the invasions of the Assyrians, and the latter were preludes of Christ’s awful appearance to the last judgment

REFLECTIONS UPON CHAP. II.—It is very needful that ministers should warn sinners of the fatal consequences of their conduct. But the rareness of tremendous judgments wonderfully discovers the infinite patience and mercy of God. How dangerous is it to rebel against JERROVAH, who by a nod can muster even an army of insects able to ruin the mightiest nations on earth! No one can either withstand, support under, or flee from his incensed wrath. And but little comfort can the luminaries of heaven afford us when their Maker frowns.—Extraordinary judgments call to extraordinary fasting and prayer; and all private loys ought to give place to public sorrows for sin or its fruits. In all solemn worship ministers ought to lead the way; and every penitent should be careful to perform whatever may prevent the reproach of Christ and his church, and promote the plentiful and purer enjoyment of his ordinances, as a principal benefit. But no fasting can avail us, unless the heart be broken and melted by God’s kindness, and turned to him. Mercy is all we need ask; and his glory, as interested in our salvation, is a sufficient plea. He will certainly hear when his people cry: and he can easily remove our plagues, renew our comforts, and give us an heart to give him the glory of his work. An abundance of outward comforts are a great mercy, when by them our hearts are enlarged in love and thankfulness to God the bestower. And especially when together with them our spiritual knowledge and faith are increased. By the most gracious, all mighty, and awful exertions of power, is Jesus’ kingdom erected in the world or in the hearts of men. And thrice happy are they, in the worst of times, who are interested in his everlasting salvation. Rejoice then, ye Gentiles, that, by the Holy Ghost sent down from heaven, ye are admitted members of his good church; and that, though clouds and darkness be round about him in the destruction of Jews, Heathens, and Antichristians, yet mercy and truth go beyond his face!