The LORD your God is in your midst, a mighty one who will save; he will rejoice over you with gladness; he will quiet you by his love; he will exult over you with loud singing. Zephaniah 3:17
I continue my study of Zephaniah using the Christ-Centered Exposition Commentary volume for this book. For today, my focus is a unassisted review of Zephaniah 3:9-20, which is the text for next chapter of my commentary. Zephaniah's message from the Lord up until this moment (chapter 1 and 2 and chapter 3 so far) has been harsh (but warranted) as God renders judgement not just on Judah but also her neighbors. Judah has been full of pride and spurning God (see Zephaniah 3:1-2). Now, remarkably, in 3:9-20 we see God's amazing grace - this is a great example of how God loved us (believers) while we were still slave to our sin, softened our heart towards Him and saved us (see also Romans 5:8) - not because of anything we did (see also Ephesians 2:8). Of the many blessings from Zephaniah 3:9-20:
- No condemnation, forgiveness - v11
- Freedom from pride, lies and deceit as sin - v11
- Peace of mind - v13
- Joy - v14
- Protection - v15
- Fellowship with God - v17
- Will make God's people a renowned name (for His glory) - v20
- Restored fortunes - v20
Of course, those who remain proud and haughty will not experience restoration as God will remove from Judah's midst those who remain "proudly exultant" (v11). This is similar to Adam and Eve's separation from God after their sin and the Fall (Genesis 3). What a terrible thing to be separated from God's love at any point - believers can take great comfort in knowing that nothing can separate us from His love (see also Romans 8:38-39). His mercies are new every morning and never cease (Lamentations 3:22-23).
Comment and discuss this post.
My Prayer: Lord Jesus, thank You for rejoicing over me with gladness and exult over me with singing, and for quieting me with Your love...and of course saving me! I am not deserving....no. My sin continues...daily. Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You. Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me. Help me grow in my faith. Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength. Please heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo. Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior. Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin. Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.
