August 24, 2026 - Zephaniah 1-3

The  prophet Zephaniah’s ministry was contemporary with King Josiah’s reforms in the 7th century B.C.  Those reforms followed the godless reigns of Manasseh and Anon.  The temple had fallen into disrepair and, since Hezekiah’s reign, the people had practiced paganism and idolatry.  The southern kingdom of Judah had seen the fall of her northern companion, Israel.  She should have known better.  Now, Zephaniah announced God’s judgment against both Judah and her enemies.  He spoke about the coming day of the Lord, in which all nations would be accountable before the Lord.  With this day coming, the prophet counsels:  “Seek the Lord, all you humble of the land, who do his just commands; seek righteousness; seek humility; perhaps you may be hidden on the day of the anger of the Lord” (2:3).  When God’s people do this, the Lord will restore their fortunes (3:20).  Better, much better, than Israel’s and Judah’s ways is to follow God, to trust him, and to walk in his ways.

O God, You are my God

And I will ever praise You

O God, You are my God

And I will ever praise You

And I will seek You in the morning

And I will learn to walk in Your ways

And step by step You'll lead me

And I will follow You all of my days.   –Rich Mullins (1991)