One of my morning devotional readings is from Sarah Young’s book of prayers Jesus Listens. One of the attached Bible readings for the day was from the not-so-read book of Zephaniah. Since I am not fond of taking scripture verses out of context, I read the whole chapter, then decided to read all three chapters of this short prophecy. Toward the end of the book was the verse often quoted by musicians and worship leaders, “The Lord God...will rejoice over you with singing.” (Zeph. 3:17)
What I rediscovered, of course, was Zephaniah’s rant about what happens to stubborn, self-absorbed, compromised so-called people of God who buy into the wicked culture around them and think they’re too cool for God. The prophet describes a searing destruction and a spiritual burn-over caused by the scorching “jealousy” of a God who will not play footsies with other gods or share affections with lesser powers.
But after this raging prophecy comes this:
I will leave in your midst
A meek and humble people,
And they shall trust in the name of the Lord.
The remnant of Israel shall do no more unrighteousness
And speak no more lies
Nor shall a deceitful tongue be found in their mouths:
For they shall feed their flocks and lie down,
And no one shall make them afraid.
Evidently, fear is the result of all the bad behaviors of a disobedient and perverse culture. Well, that makes sense. Evil choices breed violation, molestation, disregard for boundaries, arrogance, and the-law-doesn’t-apply-to-me power plays. The result of these are lawlessness and crime. Fear—fear is the natural resulting spirt of the age.
Sound familiar? Today’s counselors are constantly talking about fear—fear-based teaching, fear-based parenting, fear-based choices.
“But the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom,” Fear of the Lord. This is a freeing fear. This fear means the awe that one feels in the presence of true greatness. The fear of the Lord brings peace because the only Higher Power is given control to put things in perfect order, within and without. Our feuding conflicts are quieted. This is the only war won by surrender. A “meek and humble people” will breathe a sigh of relief. Joy restored. Free at last! Praise God Almighty, we’re free at last!
Only now will the God-fearing remnant, that has endured through it all, hear the blessing the prophet predicted.
Sing, O daughter of Zion!
Shout, O Israel!
Be glad and rejoice with all your heart....
You shall see disaster no more....
Do not fear;
Zion, let not your heart be weak.
The Lord your God is in your midst,
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.
(Zeph. 3:14-17)
“And the angel said, fear not, for I bring to you good tidings of great joy which shall be to all people, for unto you (in you) is born this day... a Savior who is Christ the Lord....Glory to God in the highest and on earth peace, goodwill toward men.”
