This week I've added another favorite prophet to my long list. It's the prophet Joel. Sunday I was doing this week's reading for Gospel Doctrine about Joseph Smith's marvelous experience with Moroni. In the Prophet's history, he shares the scriptures that Moroni repeats to him three times that night and once more the next day. Of course he quotes Malachi and Isaiah, but I hadn't really noticed the reference to Acts and to Joel. So, I also read those references, and Joel touched me.
We don't know much about Joel, but his prophecy is quoted by Peter at the time of the Pentecost as well as by Moroni. Here it is:
"I will pour out my spirit upon all flesh; and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, and your young men shall see visions; and also upon the servants and upon the handmaids of those days will I pour out my spirit" (Joel 2:28-29).
I know that this speaks specifically of the Restoration and continuing revelation, but what strikes me this time is that through Joel we are promised that we in the last days are promised personal revelation in our own lives.
That becomes so significant for us, especially for young people who have meaningful decisions to make about their lives in this troubled time--decisions about missions, marriage, family, education, careers, church service, and just life. We have been promised that if we are faithful, we will be guided, we will receive divine direction through that spirit that can be poured out upon us.
So, that's why I like Joel. He reminds me that if I am faithful, diligent, and seeking divine help, I will be guided--and so can you.
I also love that scripture about the spirit beign poured out and dreams and visions. I feel the Restoration, more than any other time has allowed access to the gifts of the Spirit to more people of all kinds, old men, young men and handmaids.
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