People often think about the Second Coming of the Savior with fear. But the Lord has said that “the righteous need not fear” (1 Nephi 22:17). President Joseph Fielding Smith further added, “It will not be a day of dread and fear to the righteous” (Doctrines of Salvation, comp. Bruce R. McConkie, 3 vols. [1954–56], 1:173). Joel 2 records some dark prophecies that make some people fearful. As you read, also look for what the Lord will do in the last days and at the time of His Second Coming that can encourage you and give you hope.
Understanding the Scriptures
Joel 2
| Nigh at hand (v. 1) | Coming soon | |
| Devoureth (vv. 3, 5) | Completely destroys | |
| Stubble (v. 5) | The small, short stalks left over after harvesting the grain | |
| Battle array (v. 5) | Prepared and set up for battle | |
| Ranks (v. 7) | Lines of marching soldiers | |
| Thrust (v. 8) | Bump, run into | |
| Executeth (v. 11) | Performs, will see that something happens | |
| Rend (v. 13) | Tear, break | |
| Heritage (v. 17) | Children | |
| Reproach (vv. 17, 19) | Shame | |
| Hinder (v. 20) | Back | |
| Savour (v. 20) | Smell | |
| Spring (v. 22) | Grow | |
| Former rain, latter rain (v. 23) | Two rainy seasons of the year in the land of Israel |
Studying the Scriptures
Do activities A and B as you study Joel 2.
Answer Joel’s Question
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Who can abide the Lord's day? |
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The first ten verses of Joel 2 describe awful destructions that occur at the “day of the Lord.” Verse 11 asks a question we might wonder about after reading such gloomy and terrible prophecies. After reading Joel 2:12–20 and Doctrine and Covenants 45:57, write an answer to the question at the end of Joel 2:11.
A Latter-day Prophecy
Read Joel 2:28–32 and Joseph Smith—History 1:41. In what ways have you seen this prophecy fulfilled?
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