The work of resistance can come with personal and relational sacrifice. You may have the correct humble, peace-filled posture, truly have empathy and compassion for people, and deliver that truth with a sincere heart, yet it still is not received. It’s hard to leave it with God, the restorer of efforts and of “years the locust have eaten” (Joel 2:25).

God’s restoration does not just include personal relationships but includes full reconciliation where brokenness is no longer present. God promises to deliver his people from injustice; he will be a refuge and a stronghold, and peace - shalom, where everything is restored and nothing is broken - will be established. This Spirit-directed restorative work defies human abilities. He invites us to join his redemptive, restorative work in the world. 

One day prophet voices like Joel’s would no longer be unique. We see in the second chapter of Acts, after the Holy Spirit descends on the people gathered for the celebration of Pentecost the words of Joel were retold. “In the last days, God says, I will pour out my Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your young men will see visions, your old men will dream dreams. Even on my servants, both men and women, I will pour out my Spirit in those days, and they will prophesy” (Joel 2:28-29; Acts 2:17-18).