Read: Zephaniah 2:4-3:20
In the
second chapter Zephaniah addresses the nations that are threatening Judah on
all sides. He prophesies against
Philistia to the west side of Judah (2:4-7), Moab and Ammon to the east
(2:8-11), Egypt and Ethiopia to the south (2:12) and Assyria to the north
(2:13-15). Each nation is told that they
will be punished by the Lord who is Judge of the whole world. The third chapter reveals the future of
Jerusalem. The people are not responding
to the message of coming judgment with repentance, instead the leaders, rulers,
prophets and priests have forsaken their role of preserving society and are
instead destroying society with their rebellion. If these people don’t change soon there will
be a national disaster! Verses 8-20 of
chapter three conclude with a message of hope, love and mercy. God will purify the nations and restore the
scattered remnant (3:9-10) bringing justice and peace in the land
(3:11-13). There will be great rejoicing
because at that time no one will be proud, do wrong or tell lies
(3:12-13). Zephaniah even says that God
will take great delight in His people and rejoice over them (3:17). God is full of justice but also grace,
gladness and tenderness. He will remove
their idolatry, pride, deceit, fear and enemies restoring to them safety,
prosperity, purity, worship, trust, and joy.
Prayer and Journaling
1. Re-read
Zephaniah 2:4-15. How many times do you
see references to pride, mocking, taunting, arrogance, etc.? What Does God want to say to you about pride
in your life? What impact does this
pride have in your personal relationships?
2. Ask
the Lord to show you ways that you can embrace humility and be dependent on God
this next week.
3. Re-read
Zephaniah 3:14-17. What do these verses
tell us about God and the relationship that He has with His people? What does
God want to say to you today through these verses?
