August 19, 2023 - Zephaniah 1-3

Presumption – Pride – Trust. Presumption is the mistake of assuming that God is detached, not involved in his creation, and does not act. In Zephaniah’s day, the prophet called out and warned the presumptuous: “And at that time I will search Jerusalem with lamps and punish the men who settle down comfortably, who say to themselves: The Lord will not do good or evil” (1:12).

About pride, Solomon declared, “Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall” (Proverbs 16:18). God hates sinful pride but delights in humility. What a contrast: “I will remove your proud, arrogant people from among you, and you will never again be haughty on my holy mountain. I will leave a meek and humble people among you, and they will take refuge in the name of Yahweh” (3:11,12). Sort of reminiscent of the beatitudes, huh?

Zephaniah preached about the day of the Lord and, though it will be devastating for the presumptuous and the prideful, for those who trust in the Lord it will be glorious: “The King of Israel, Yahweh, is among you; you need no longer fear harm. On that day it will be said to Jerusalem: ‘Do not fear; Zion, do not let your hands grow weak. Yahweh your God is among you, a warrior who saves. He will rejoice over you with gladness. He will bring you quietness with His love. He will delight in you with shouts of joy’” (3:15-17). Can’t help but think of the Psalms: “In God have I put my trust: I will not be afraid what man can do unto me (Psalm 56:11) & “The Lord is on my side; I will not fear: what can man do unto me?” (Psalm 118:6).

Hasten, Lord, the glorious time,

When beneath Messiah’s sway,

Every nation, every clime,

Shall the gospel call obey.

Mightiest kings His power shall own;

Heathen tribes His name adore.

Satan and His host o’erthrown,

Bound in chains, shall hurt no more.

Then shall wars and tumults cease,

Then be banished grief and pain;

Righteousness and joy and peace,

Undisturbed, shall ever reign. --Harriet Auber (1832)