1. The LORD's answer (18-27)

How did God respond when his people repented? What happens when we rend our hearts and return to him? He makes all things new again! God promised "I will repay you for the years the locusts have eaten..." and that is exactly what he did. He completely reversed all the damage caused by the locusts. He sent grain, new wine and olive oil. The trees bore their fruit again and the wild animals could frolic once more in lush green pastures. There is no one like our God! When we sincerely repent from our hearts and turn back to him, he restores us and makes our lives fruitful again.

2. God will pour out his Spirit (28-32)

God went far beyond restoring their material blessings. He promised to renew his relationship with his people in a way that was far grander than anything before. God says, "And afterward, I will pour out my Spirit on all people." It was this Spirit that filled Peter and the apostles on the day of Pentecost, and it is the same Spirit who lives in the hearts of those who have experienced new birth in Christ. Through his Spirit, God dwells in every believer. He is present with his people forever! Although the day of the LORD is coming, his people do not have to be afraid.