Insight to the Word: Minister Before the Lord

Joel 2:17

Let the priests, who minister before the Lord,
weep between the portico and the altar.
Let them say, “Spare your people, Lord.
Do not make your inheritance an object of scorn,
a byword among the nations.
Why should they say among the peoples,
‘Where is their God?’”

Minister before the Lord

When those who minister for God see hurt and suffering among God's people, they should be the ones who lead the way in turning to God with humility, a broken heart, weeping and prayer. God expects leaders to intercede (i.e., plead a case for others, pray for their needs and situations), asking God to save his people from physical and spiritual harm.

God wants spiritual leaders to pray constantly and with a great passion for the outpouring of God's favour and Spirit upon the people (we can establish this with the answer of God in verses 18-29 of Joel 2). Only then will the people experience spiritual revival, restoration and renewal in their love for and dedication to God.

Thanks for reading and stay blessed.