Definition: Who knoweth [if] he will return and repent, and leave a blessing behind him; [even] a meat offering and a drink offering unto the LORD your God?

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Joel 2:14. It’s a really important part of understanding how God sees things in the future. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is about God’s hope for a time when He will return to Earth and offer a sacrifice – essentially a “meat offering” and a “drink offering.” It’s a message of expectation and a chance for restoration. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “Who knoweth [if] he will return and repent, and leave a blessing behind him?” This is the core question. It asks if people are aware of this future event. It’s asking if they understand that God is going to come back and offer something good. The word "knoweth" means “to know” or “to understand.” “[Even] a meat offering and a drink offering unto the LORD your God?” This tells us what kind of sacrifice God will make. These are symbolic offerings – not actual meat or drinks – but they represent something truly valuable: A Meat Offering: This signifies a willingness to give up things we value, to be humbled, and to turn away from our own ways. It’s about recognizing that true blessings come from God. A Drink Offering: This symbolizes a recognition of God's goodness and the need for gratitude. What does it mean in bigger picture? Joel is speaking about a time when things are broken, hurting, and lost. It’s a time of darkness and despair. But God promises to return and offer a way back to Himself – a path of restoration. This verse is a promise of hope for the future. Why is this important? This verse is often interpreted as a call to repentance - to turn away from our sins and seek God's forgiveness. It’s a reminder that God cares deeply about us, and He has a plan for redemption even when we don’t see it. In short: Joel 2:14 says that God is planning a significant event – a return and a sacrifice – to restore things and bring good back into the world. It’s a message of hope and a call to change our hearts. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Connect it to other parts of the Bible? Answer any specific questions you have about it?