Read Zephaniah 1 – 3
The LORD thy God in the midst of thee is mighty; he will save, he will rejoice over thee with joy; he will rest in his love, he will joy over thee with singing. Zephaniah 3:17 KJV
As with the other prophets, Zephaniah begins with pronouncements of judgment against the people of Judah and Jerusalem. Difficult days were coming as God would deal justly with their sins. But Zephaniah also looks beyond their punishment to a glorious future; a time when all Israel will turn back to the Lord, serve Him, and rejoice in Him. In that day, God will be in their midst, He will show Himself mighty, and He will save them from sin and their enemies. With such news we would expect rejoicing, joy, and singing. It may surprise some though to see God is the One doing so. God rejoices over His people! When God’s people turn to Him, call upon Him, trust and serve Him, He sings with joy. This is an amazing depiction of Him; one which I believe most fail to realize is true. Just as our children bring us joy, we bring joy to the Lord through our good responses to Him.
Lord, for some reason I find it difficult to imagine You laughing and singing with joy, and yet Your Word clearly teaches You do as I respond to You in faith and obedience. I want my life to give You reason for joy rather than grief. Help me in my shortcomings.
A question to ponder: What can I do today in response to Scripture that will give God reason to rejoice over me with singing?
