One of the aspects that I love about writing a weekly devotion, is studying scripture from different books in the Bible.  Studying a verse from Zephaniah would not be my first choice to study if it was not for the verses of the week.  Zephaniah prophesied during the reign of Josiah who was the king of Judah from 640 BC to 609 BC.  Zephaniah’s great, great grandfather was King Hezekiah who was known as a good king who was devoted to God.  His great uncle was King Manasseh who was known as the evil king.  He would have had an inside knowledge of his family and the devastation of sin and the fulfillment of keeping the faith.  

Because of his family tree, one can understand why Zephaniah preaches a message of judgment and restoration.  He clearly states the consequences of sin for all people.  Yet, he follows up the topic of judgment with the understanding that those who are believers in God will be restored.  This passage, found in verse 17 of chapter 3, is describing the benefits of being restored in God.  There is no need to live in despair or fear because God is a great warrior who has already won the battle.  Not only will He rescue you, but He also loves those who are in a relationship with Him.

I believe the key is to be in a relationship with God.  Many of the Jews believed that God loved them based on their nationality.  However, God always demanded for them to believe and follow Him.  A Jew was not involved in a covenant relationship if they do not have faith and keep God’s commandments.  Faith is essential!  Christians also have a covenant relationship with God.  It is centered on the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross.  Those who believe that Jesus Christ is their Lord and Savior are a part of God’s chosen family.  The result is that even as life feels like it is crumbling around you, God is with you! He has already won the battle and you can trust Him to have victory in your life. No matter the mistakes you have made, you are forgiven.  You are not a disappointment to God!

Read Zephaniah 3:6-20