“The Lord, your God, is in your midst, a warrior who gives victory; he will rejoice over you with gladness; he will renew you in his love; he will exult over you with loud singing.”
Zephaniah 3:17
This verse is part of a song of joy.
It is speaking to the remnant of Israel, declaring that God fights on their side, rejoices over them, and loves them.
However, it must be understood that this follows a condemnation and a judgment against Israel. The remnant stayed faithful, and God honored that.
Some theologies argue that the Church has replaced Israel, others argue that passages like this prophecy are literally about Israel. From my perspective, though, what is important is to understand the pattern and character of God. When God’s people are not faithful, God rebukes them and allows, even brings, judgment against them.
When His people are faithful, He is their warrior, their strength, their protection. God showers us with His love, but He also expects that we develop proper character. This chapter describes the remnant as “humble and lowly,” doing no wrong, and uttering no lies.
The mistake that Israel and the Church make over and over is the belief that God will bless us in our arrogance and pride because He has chosen us. But God has chosen the meek and humble. When we lose those qualities, we no longer reflect the character God has chosen to honor.
A Quote to Consider
“Now all the demons look like prophets and I’m living out every word they speak.”
–Jars of Clay
It is a story told over and over throughout history. A story of wolves in sheep’s clothing and false prophets.
They tell us what we want to hear. They erect a system that centers us… Well, ultimately, them, but these systems encourage us to focus on ourselves. This is the perpetual tactic of demons, making us the center, the focus, the hero.
Yet, they do it so convincingly, holding Bibles and addressing us from pulpits. The wolves in sheep’s clothing are demons in suits and vestments. They teach a gospel I want to hear. They teach a gospel I want to follow. It is a gospel about me, a gospel where I am the center.
This is an easy gospel to embrace. I want to live out every word they speak.
But it is a lie. It is not good news at all. The true Gospel is built upon Christ and His selfless character. The true Gospel encourages me to serve rather than encouraging me to proclaim myself a hero.
The demons position for power, Christ divested Himself of power and calls us to do the same. They look like prophets, but their fruit clamors after power. They seek to be first, but Christ ensures they are last.
Prayer
Lord Jesus,
Thank you for your love. Thank you for being a warrior in our midst. Help us to shun the call of demons to pursue power. Help me to humbly rest in your power. Help me to seek to serve rather than seeking to be mighty.
In Your beautiful name,
Amen
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