As we begin reading the book of Zephaniah we find that his ministry took place in the days of Josiah’s reign and before his reforms (2 Chronicles 34:1-13).
“The word of the LORD which came to Zephaniah the son of Cushi, the son of Gedaliah, the son of Amariah, the son of Hezekiah, in the days of Josiah the son of Amon, king of Judah:” (Zep. 1:1)
Zephaniah prophesies about a coming day of judgment: a devastating Day of the Lord! (Zep. 1:2-3, 14-18)
-Judgment for the idolatry that was taking place among His people –those who had turned from following the Lord-. (1:4-6)
-Judgment against the leaders and princes. (1:7-9)
-Judgment against the merchant people. Those that trusted in their riches –idolatry- (1:10-11)
-Judgment against the complacent -the stagnant in spirit-(1:12-13)
Then in chapter 2 we find God calling His people to repentance:
“Gather yourselves together [in repentance], yes, gather [in submission],
O nation without shame,” (2:1)
“Seek the Lord [search diligently for Him and regard Him as the foremost necessity of your life], All you humble of the land who have practiced His ordinances and have kept His commandments; Seek righteousness, seek humility [regard them as vital].
Perhaps you will be hidden [and pardoned and rescued]
In the day of the Lord’s anger.” (2:3 AMP)
When I take a close look around me, I sadly can find this same issue taking place in people’s hearts!! Our God is also calling US to repentance. We must humbly look into our hearts and ask His Holy Spirit to show us our faults! May we continually let Him purify our hearts (1Pe. 5:6); then we will be ready to boldly spread the Word just as Zephaniah did:
“Repent; humble yourselves and seek the Lord!!”
“So get rid of all uncleanness and [a]all that remains of wickedness, and with a humble spirit receive the word [of God] which is implanted [actually rooted in your heart], which is able to save your souls. 22 But prove yourselves doers of the word [actively and continually obeying God’s precepts], and not merely listeners [who hear the word but fail to internalize its meaning], deluding yourselves [by unsound reasoning contrary to the truth]. (James 1:21-22 AMP) (1Pe. 4:17)
“But He gives us more and more grace [through the power of the Holy Spirit to defy sin and live an obedient life that reflects both our faith and our gratitude for our salvation]. Therefore, it says, “God is opposed to the proud and haughty, but [continually] gives [the gift of] grace to the humble [who turn away from self-righteousness].” 7 So submit to [the authority of] God. Resist the devil [stand firm against him] and he will flee from you. 8 Come close to God [with a contrite heart] and He will come close to you. Wash your hands, you sinners; and purify your [unfaithful] hearts, you double-minded [people]. 9 Be miserable and grieve and weep [over your sin]. Let your [foolish] laughter be turned to mourning and your [reckless] joy to gloom. 10 Humble yourselves [with an attitude of repentance and insignificance] in the presence of the Lord, and He will exalt you [He will lift you up, He will give you purpose].” (James 4:6-10)
O what wonderful promises we find in His Word! He loves us so that as a loving Father He is willing to forgive us, and take us back into His loving arms! He yearns for us and He wants us close to His heart!!
“For the Lord your God has arrived to live among you. He is a mighty savior. He will rejoice over you with great gladness. With his love, he will calm all your fears. He will exult over you by singing a happy song.” (Zep.3:17)
"Faulty as the church is, the Lord rejoices in her. While we mourn, as well we may, yet we do not sorrow as those that are without hope; for God does not sorrow, his heart is glad, and he is said to rejoice with joy - a highly emphatic expression." (Spurgeon)
Rejoice in His love my sisters!!
Mari