Zephaniah 3:8-20
8: Here God judges the nations all at once. He has wrath because He cares. As the Lumineers put it, “It's better to feel pain, than nothing at all; The opposite of love's indifference.” God is not apathetic. It bothers Him when countries oppress and dominate others or their own.
9-10: God’s goal is to purify so that all can come from near and far to worship shoulder to shoulder. How would you like to have “purified lips?” (Isaiah 6:1-7)
11-13: God will remove the rebellious and prideful so that the humble can take refuge in Him without worrying about injustice and oppression. Finally, people can trust each other since no one will tell lies or deceive anymore. Like a good shepherd, God will care for His people and provide them with pasture and safety.
14-17: The people shout for joy because God has not only cleared away their enemies, but He has come to dwell in their midst, guaranteeing future security. Fear is no more. God reciprocates by also shouting for joy and exulting over His people.
18-20: God will not only deal with oppressors, but He will save the oppressed so that those who were on the bottom will now enjoy renown and praise. God intends restoration for His people. Would you like to see this new world?
God will make everything wrong with the world right. He will heal everything—our governments, our bodies, our relationships. This is His dream. Will you allow it to shape who you are today?
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