The Valley of Decision

“Multitudes, multitudes in the valley of decision! 

For the day of the LORD is near.”

 Joel 3:14 (NIV)

In Joel’s time, Israel had suffered terrible devastation. Swarms of locusts had stripped the land bare, and the nation faced famine, fear, and despair. The prophet Joel called the people to repentance, promising that God would restore what had been lost and pour out His Spirit on all who turned back to Him. But he also warned of a coming day when God would judge the nations—a time he called “the valley of decision.” Historically, this referred to the Valley of Jehoshaphat, a symbol of divine judgment. Spiritually, it represents the place where every person must decide whether to follow God or resist Him. As the psalmist wrote, “Those who devise wicked schemes are near, but they are far from your law. Yet you are near, LORD” (Psalm 119:150–151). Every other choice—career, success, or relationships—fades beside this eternal decision: Will we call on the Lord and live close to Him?

God’s invitation is clear and compassionate. He longs for His people to return, promising mercy and renewal for all who do. Walter Brueggemann described this moment as “yielding to Yahweh’s new possibility.” We can hear God’s Word again and again, but it only brings life when we respond in faith and obedience. Our small, daily choices—whether to trust, forgive, or pray—show which direction our hearts are turning.

For those who choose to call on the Lord, the promise is full of hope: “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved” (Joel 2:32). God is not distant or indifferent—He draws near to all who seek Him. As Eugene Peterson reminded us, “Prayer is not a place to be good—it’s a place to be honest.” When we come to Him in truth, He restores what is broken, renews what is lost, and fills us with peace. The valley of decision, then, is not meant to frighten us but to free us—to lead us from fear into faith, and from distance into the joy of God’s nearness.

Prayer:

Lord, in this valley of decision, help us to choose You. Soften our hearts where they are hard, and fill us with faith to trust Your promises. Thank You that when we call on Your name, You draw near, restore what was lost, and give us peace. Amen.