Zephaniah 3:14-20, 1 Peter 1:6-9
Reflect
We would be very hard pressed to find another Older Testament passage that is so intensely focused on expressions of joy. Surging out of this passage are images, words, and imperatives guiding us to have our souls filled with joy. The entire ending of Zephaniah is so filled with joy that it is almost undreamed of and beyond description.
To appreciate how Zephaniah got here, it is helpful to realize that most of this prophetic book describes what will come on “the day of the LORD”. This profound day will be more miserable than can be described for those that have rejected God, and more wonderful than can be imagined for those that follow God.
Verse 17 is a gem; it is often used as a big old warm hug around a person so that they can cozy in with God like a heated blanket. Heated blankets are often located in the emergency room. You typically don’t receive one if you are a guest or observer. They are reserved for those that have experienced the pain and the suffering (v19) that brought them there.
This beautiful passage is packed with emotion. Resist being self-absorbed and notice how it emphasizes that we don’t live the joy-filled life God desires for us until those around us see the joy that He pours through us. God rejoices (v17) and likes company. My goodness, what would people even say if we truly rejoiced and exulted with all our heart (v14)! Scandalous!
Who will you join Him in rejoicing over?
Pastor Dan
Pray
- Pray for our Prime Minister and Premier, Mayor Sohi, your MP, your MLA, and any other government officials God brings to your mind.
- Pray for our Worship Ministries Assistant, Daniel Zander.
- Pray for our Evening Event Hosts, Ethan Okken and Noah Okken