Zephaniah, the great-great-grandson of King Hezekiah, warns the people of the coming Day of the Lord. He prophesied during the days of Josiah, King of Judah. As you might recall, Josiah is remembered for his great spiritual reforms, calling Judah back to worshipping only the LORD. He was the last good king Judah would have. Zephaniah speaks of the immediate future following Josiah’s death.
Judgment Is Near
Stand in silence in the presence of the Sovereign Lord, for the awesome day of the Lord’s judgment is near… “I will punish the leaders and princes of Judah and all those following pagan customs…” (Zephaniah 1:7–9, NLT)
Yes, God’s people were on the eve of judgment for their sins. God does not overlook sin. What a thought that our sins, when they were placed on Jesus while He hung on the cross, God spared not even His own Son, but judged them (Romans 8:32)!
A Call for Repentance
Yet, on the eve of judgment, what does the prophet say? Gather before judgment begins, before your time to repent is blown away like chaff. Act now, before the fierce fury of the Lord falls and the terrible day of the Lord’s anger begins. (Zephaniah 2:2, NLT)
God prefers repentance! Sadly, notice the people’s response. She obeyed not the voice; she received not correction; She trusted not in the Lord; she drew not near to her God. (Zephaniah 3:2, KJV)
The Promise of Restoration
Though a terrible judgment was coming, God made a promise of salvation. At that time will I bring you again, even in the time that I gather you: For I will make you a name and a praise among all people of the earth, When I turn back your captivity before your eyes, saith the Lord. (Zephaniah 3:20, KJV)
God would not forever cast off His people! After they were chastened, He would restore them! …The Mighty One, will save; He will rejoice over you with gladness, He will quiet you with His love, He will rejoice over you with singing.” (Zephaniah 3:17, NKJV)
God is a good God! He warns. He patiently waits for repentance. He corrects. He restores.
Thank you for joining me as I read and journal chronologically through the Bible! This devotional reflection comes from Zephaniah 1-3.