The Church of the Thessalonians 1 Thessalonians 1:1

Paul the apostle began the church of the Thessalonians on his second missionary journey as he was accompanied by Silas, Timothy and Luke. After sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ in Philippi where he and Silas were beaten and imprisoned for their witness to the Jews there, Paul left Philippi with his entourage and travelled south down the Roman highway where he entered Thessalonica and reasoned from the scriptures for three Sabbath days concerning Jesus the messiah. Some of the people believed, and some did not. The unbelieving people started a tumult against Paul and his group, and he and the others left the city. After some time, Paul visited the city of Corinth where he stayed for a year and a half and sent Timothy back to Thessalonica to check on their progress. He found them doing well and prospering in the Lord, so he wrote this letter to encourage them toward the coming of the Lord and to correct some errors which had entered the church. In chapter one and verse one, Paul mentioned some of his co-workers, the church of Thessalonica, and a typical Pauline greeting by which he begins his letters. We read:

Paul, and Silvanus, and Timotheus, unto the church of the Thessalonians which is in God the Father and in the Lord Jesus Christ: Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ.

The verse begins, “Paul, and Silvanus, and Timotheus, unto the church of the Thessalonians...” Paul began with his own name, “Paul” which means “small or little” “and Silvanus” which means “woody” and was “a Roman citizen, the companion of the apostle Paul on several of his missionary journeys” “and Timotheus” or “Timothy” which means “honoring God” and was “a resident of Lystra, apparently, whose father was a Greek and mother a Jewess; he was Paul's traveling companion and fellow laborer” “unto the church” which in Greek is “ekklēsia” and was “a gathering of citizens called out from their homes into some public place or an assembly” “of the Thessalonians” which is modern day “Salonica”. Paul often began his letters according to the custom of the day where his name is mentioned first and then the recipient of the letter is mentioned directly afterwards.

The verse goes on to say, “...which is in God the Father and in the Lord Jesus Christ:” Paul continued, “which is in” or “by, with or among” “God” which is the Greek word “theos” and means “the Godhead or trinity which is comprised of God the Father, Christ and the Holy Spirit and is spoken of the one true God” “the Father” or “generator or male ancestor” “and in the Lord” which means “he to whom a person or thing belongs, about which he has power of deciding; master” “Jesus” whose name means “Jehovah is salvation” “Christ” or “anointed one, the messiah and Son of God”. The church in Thessalonica had it's foundation and basis in “God the Father” and in His Son, the messiah, Jesus Christ.

Finally the verse says, “Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ.” Paul began his greeting with, “Grace” which is a typical Greek greeting using the word “charis” which means “that which affords joy, pleasure, delight, sweetness, charm, loveliness: grace of speech, goodwill, loving-kindness and favor” “be unto you” which refers to “the Thessalonians to whom he is writing” “and peace” which means “tranquility, exempt from rage, safety, security, prosperity and felicity” and was a typical Jewish greeting “from God” or “the Godhead or trinity which is comprised of God the Father, Christ and the Holy Spirit and is spoken of the one true God” “our Father” which refers to “generator or male ancestor” “and the Lord Jesus Christ” who is “the one to whom a person or thing belongs, about which he has power of deciding; master, whose name means Jehovah is salvation, the anointed one, messiah and Son of God”. Paul's basis for writing began with the foundation upon which the church in Thessalonica was birthed.

As we think through these words of Paul, let us imagine ourselves writing to a church the Lord Jesus allowed us to begin. What would we write to them, and how would we begin our letter. There is no greater desire than to know that a person has the “grace” and “peace” of the Lord with them. The church in Thessalonica experienced God's “grace” by receiving Jesus as their personal Savior and Lord, and it was only afterwards when they experienced “peace” with God. Paul knew the Thessalonians were a church with a strong foundation even though he was with them for such a short time. As we continue with our study in this fascinating letter, let us allow the Lord Jesus to speak to our hearts as though we attend the church in Thessalonica, and may His “grace and peace” be upon us as we do.

Next time we will see Paul giving “thanks unto God” and “praying”, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow…there is more…

Look for the daily devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation”, the marriage book “So, You Want to Be Married”, and the new devotional “One Year in the Sermon on the Mount” in all major bookstore sites, http://www.amazon.com ; http://www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore.

Make a Name and a Praise Zephaniah 3:20

The restoration of a “remnant” in Judah is clearly seen through the latter verses of Zephaniah the prophet. His declaration of the “mighty” LORD being in their midst, saving and rejoicing over them with joy, resting in His love and having “joy over them with singing” was only the beginning of the restorative words he shared. The LORD promised that He would “gather” the “sorrowful for the solemn assembly” who suffered “reproach” because they could not participate while captives, and He vowed to “undo” those who afflicted them as well as “save” the halted, gather the driven out, and “get them praise and fame in every land where they had been put to shame.” In the chapter three and verse twenty, which is the final verse of Zephaniah's prophesy, the LORD shares how He will give them “a name and a praise among all people of the earth” where we read:

At that time will I bring you again, even in the time that I gather you: for I will make you a name and a praise among all people of the earth, when I turn back your captivity before your eyes, saith the LORD.

The verse begins, “At that time will I bring you again, even in the time that I gather you:” Zephaniah began with the words, “At that time” which means “occurrence, fortune or when” “will I bring” or “go in, enter, come, with or attain” “you again even in the time” which refers to “an occurrence, fortune or when” “that I gather you:” or “assemble and collect you”. Zephaniah's reference to the time of the restoration of this “remnant” is declared, and the promise for the people whom the LORD “brings again” and “gathers” was to be an noteworthy happening.

The verse goes on to say, “for I will make you a name and a praise among all people of the earth, when I turn back your captivity before your eyes, says the LORD.” Zephaniah continued, “for I will make” or “give, put or set upon” “you a name” which means “reputation, fame and glory” “and a praise” or “song, hymn, adoration, thanksgiving and laudation” “among all people” which refers to “nations, country-men, kinsmen and kindred” “of the earth” or “whole countries, territories, districts or regions” “when I turn back” which means “return, bring back, restore, refresh and repair” “your captivity” or “captives” “before your eyes” which refers to “their site and vision ” “says the LORD” or “speaks, utters, avows and avouches Yehovah or Jehovah who is the existing One and the proper name for the one true God”. When the LORD restored Judah, not only would He “give them a name and a praise” among those who shamed them, but also throughout all the “people of the earth”.

As we think through these final words of Zephaniah, we should marvel at the grace of the LORD. He began this prophesy by declaring the destruction and devastation of Judah and Jerusalem, and He ended it by stating their return to an exalted state. This should give us an indication of the mercy and grace the LORD desires to share with every person through Jesus Christ. He knows how we have been, act and speak, and still His desire is to have a relationship with everyone who will receive Him by way of His Son Jesus Christ. Though we may suffer for our sin, the LORD is waiting to restore, rebuild and give us a name whereby people throughout the earth will know of our glory and fame. God is “no respecter of persons” according to the book of Acts (chapter ten and verse thirty four), and as He did for Judah, He will do for us as well. Let us give praise, honor, glory and worship to God Almighty, Our LORD and Jesus Christ for the glorious grace He extends to all who call upon His name.

Next time we will turn to the New Testament again and begin a study in the book of First Thessalonians, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow…there is more…

Look for the daily devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation”, the marriage book “So, You Want to Be Married”, and the new devotional “One Year in the Sermon on the Mount” in all major bookstore sites, http://www.amazon.com ; http://www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore.

Make a Name and a Praise Zephaniah 3:20

As Zephaniah began to close his prophesy concerning Judah and Jerusalem, he shared concerning the “mighty” LORD being among them, and how he would “rest over”, “rejoice” and “sing over” them “with joy”. Zephaniah also declared how the LORD would “gather them that are sorrowful for the solemn assembly” which was a “reproach” to them because while they were exiled they could not participate in the “solemn” activities. In chapter three and verse nineteen of his prophesy, Zephaniah shared how the LORD would “undo the afflicters” of His people where we read:

Behold, at that time I will undo all that afflict you: and I will save her that halts, and gather her that was driven out; and I will get them praise and fame in every land where they have been put to shame.

The verse begins, “Behold, at that time I will undo all that afflict you:” Zephaniah began with the phrase, “Behold, at that time” which means “when that occurrence begins” “I will undo” or “fashion, accomplish and make” “all that afflict you” which refers to “those who occupied, were busy with, oppressed, put down, depressed, made to be downcast and to stoop”. The LORD's attention was upon those who suffered in their “afflictions”, and His promise was to “undo” all that was done unto them.

The verse goes on to say, “and I will save her that halts, and gather her that was driven out;” Zephaniah shares more specifically concerning some of those who were afflicted as he wrote, “and I will save” or “deliver, liberate and be victorious over” “her that halts” which means “limps or is lame” “and gather” or “assemble and collect” “her that was driven out” which refers to “those impelled, thrust, driven away, chased and banished”. Not only was the LORD to “undo” the “afflicted”, but He would also save the limping and lame as He gathered those who were driven out of their country by their enemies.

Finally the verse says, “and I will get them praise and fame in every land where they have been put to shame.” Zephaniah concludes this verse with, “and I will get” or “put in place, set, appoint and make” “them praise” which means “adoration, thanksgiving and public praise and song” “and fame” or “a name, reputation, glory and memorial” “in every land” which refers to “every country, territory, district and region” “where they have been put to shame” which is all one Hebrew word “bosheth” and means “ashamed, confused and greatly shameful”. In place of their “affliction, lameness and banishment”, the LORD was to obtain “praise” and “fame” in every place they were “put to shame” in the past.

When we meditate upon the LORD's words through Zephaniah, we realize His resolve and purpose to restore Judah and Jerusalem to their exalted state. Though they were “afflicted, lame, banished and shamed” because of their apostasy, the LORD was purposed to reinstate them. We see the immense and amazing grace of our LORD Jesus in this example. Though people suffer for their non-belief in Jesus and have many times been shamed for their behavior and speech, the LORD continues to desire a relationship with them. As it was with Judah, so is it with those who suffer today. The LORD wants to save and restore man, not afflict Him. Let us turn our focus upon Him once again and realize if He desires to restore and rebuild the people of Judah, not only will He do so for us, but also for all who will receive Him as Savior and LORD.

Next time we complete the book of Zephaniah and see him share how the LORD will “gather” the people of Judah and “make” them “a name and a praise among all people of the earth”, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow…there is more…

Look for the daily devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation”, the marriage book “So, You Want to Be Married”, and the new devotional “One Year in the Sermon on the Mount” in all major bookstore sites, http://www.amazon.com ; http://www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore.

Gathering the Sorrowful Zephaniah 3:18

As Zephaniah declared the LORD's restoration of a “remnant” in Judah, he told how the “mighty” LORD would be “in the midst” of them. His promise was to “save”, “rejoice over” them “with joy”, and that he would “rest in his love” and “joy over” them “with singing”. In chapter three and verse eighteen of his prophesy, Zephaniah shared how the LORD will “gather them that are sorrowful” where we read:

I will gather them that are sorrowful for the solemn assembly, who are of you,

to whom the reproach of it was a burden.

The verse begins, “I will gather them that are sorrowful for the solemn assembly,...” Zephaniah began with the phrase, “I will gather” which means “receive, remove and collect” “them that are sorrowful” which is one Hebrew word “yagah” and means “afflicted, grieved, suffering and those caused to grieve” “for the solemn assembly” or “the appointed place, time or meeting”. The people who were exiled to Babylon were not able to participate in the “solemn” feasts and celebrations which were part of their culture, and at this point the LORD promised to “gather them” who were grieved over their lack in participating.

The verse goes on to say, “...who are of you, to whom the reproach of it was a burden.” Zephaniah continued, “who are of you to whom the reproach” which is all one Hebrew word, “cherpah” and means “reproach, scorn or taunt which rests upon a condition of shame or disgrace” “of it was a burden” or “uprising, utterance, portion, uplifting, signal, rising or oracle”. The people of Judah's inability to engage in the feasts and “solemn assemblies” was shameful and as a great “burden” upon the people, however he LORD's promise was to gather them together that they might be involved in these “solemn” “assemblies” once again.

As we think through Zephaniah's words, perhaps we have experienced the loss and grief of some activity or object that was enjoyable to us. The people of Judah lost part of their existence when they suffered by exile, but the LORD's promise was to “gather them” that they might participate in their activities once again. When we suffer loss, we must remember the LORD Jesus is keeping all this in His mind. He knows. He cares, and He is ready to restore with exuberance and joy that which has been taken away. Just as He brought restoration to this “remnant” of Judah, He will bring restoration to us as well. Our part is to continue to trust in Him even while the evidence of His “gathering” is not seen. May the LORD Jesus help us in our time of testing.

Next time Zephaniah tells the people how the LORD will “undo all that afflict” them, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow…there is more…

Look for the daily devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation”, the marriage book “So, You Want to Be Married”, and the new devotional “One Year in the Sermon on the Mount” in all major bookstore sites, http://www.amazon.com ; http://www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore.

The LORD is Mighty, Will Save, Rest and Joy Zephaniah 3:17

As Zephaniah begins to close his prophesy, he turns his words to the restoration of Judah and Jerusalem after their banishment for apostasy. He encourages “Zion” to sing and Israel” to”shout” as the LORD has taken away their “judgments, cast out their enemy” and “shall not see evil any more”. They were no longer to “fear” or be discouraged because the LORD would restore them to their rightful place. In chapter three and verse seventeen, Zephaniah shares concerning the LORD's “might, salvation, rest and joy” as we read:

The LORD your God in the midst of you is mighty; he will save, he will rejoice over you with joy; he will rest in his love, he will joy over you with singing.

The verse begins, “The LORD your God in the midst of you is mighty;” Zephaniah began, “The LORD” or “Yehovah or Jehovah who is the existing One and the proper name of the one true God” “your God” which means “ruler, judge and divine one” “in the midst” or “among, in the inner part or middle” “of you is mighty” which means “strong, brave, valiant and powerful as a warrior”. Zephaniah's declaration is not only concerning in whom the people of Judah believe as their God, but he also includes His attribute of power and might.

The verse goes on to say, “he will save, he will rejoice over you with joy;” Zephaniah added, “he will save” or “deliver, liberate and be victorious” “he will rejoice” which means “exult, display joy, make mirth, be bright, cheerful and glad” “over you with joy” or “gaiety, pleasure, mirth and exceeding gladness”. Not only is the LORD their God mighty, but He will be victorious over them and express exceeding joy as He does.

Finally the verse says, “he will rest in his love, he will joy over you with singing.” Zephaniah continued, “he will rest” which means “cut in, plough, engrave and devise” “in his love” or “passion and delight” “he will joy” which means “exult, be glad and joyful” “over you with singing” which is the Hebrew word “rinnah” and means “ringing cry, entreaty, supplication, proclamation, joy and praise”. When the LORD provides deliverance to the people of Judah, He will have full “rest” in “His love” to the point that He will be joyful in song in celebration of their reinstatement.

When we consider the declaration of Zephaniah in this verse, we should be excited because as it applied to Jerusalem and Judah, it applies to us as well. The LORD our God is with us, and His promise is to “save”. “He will rejoice over” us “with joy”, and the LORD's “rest” is within “His love”. He will be joyous over us with “singing” as we commit our lives to Jesus Christ whom He has provided for our salvation. The LORD's desire is to have a close relationship with all who will be restored and aligned with Him. Zephaniah's words should encourage our hearts and bless us greatly as we realize the God of the universe not only will rejoice over us, but will gladly do so in glorious song. Praise be to His Holy Name!

Next time Zephaniah tells the people how the LORD will “gather the sorrowful”, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow…there is more…

Look for the daily devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation”, the marriage book “So, You Want to Be Married”, and the new devotional “One Year in the Sermon on the Mount” in all major bookstore sites, http://www.amazon.com ; http://www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore.

Fear Not and Don't Slack Zephaniah 3:16

According to Zephaniah the prophet, because the LORD will have restored a “remnant” in Judah, they were to “sing, shout, rejoice and be glad” for their “judgments” have been “taken away”, the LORD has “cast out” their “enemy”, was “with them” and they would “not see evil any more”. In chapter three and verse sixteen of his prophesy, Zephaniah share how it would be said to “Jerusalem, Fear not”, and do not let “your hands be slack” where we read:

In that day it shall be said to Jerusalem, Fear not: and to Zion, Let not your hands be slack.

The verse begins, “In that day it shall be said to Jerusalem, Fear not:” Zephaniah began, “In that day” or “time, year or period” “it shall be said” which means “uttered, spoken, avouched and called out” “to Jerusalem” which means “teaching of peace” and was “the chief city of Palestine and capital of the united kingdom and the nation of Judah after the split” “Fear not” or “do not be afraid, awed, dreaded or astonished” . When Jerusalem was restored and the LORD was with them, they would no longer have to be afraid.

The verse continues, “and to Zion, Let not your hands be slack.” Zephaniah continued, “and to Zion” which means “parched place” and was “another name for Jerusalem especially in the prophetic books”“Let not your hands” which refers to “human hands” “be slack” or “sink, relax, drop or be disheartened”. The people within the city of Jerusalem would no longer be disheartened and discouraged as the LORD would not only restore them to their former glory, but also be in the “midst of them”.

When we meditate upon Zephaniah's words, we understand the benefit of having the LORD's presence with us at all times. The people of Jerusalem were to know what it meant to be in great fear, and they were to experience extreme discouragement because of their defeat. However, the LORD's promise to this humble and faithful“remnant” was encouragement because their humility and trust in Him would not only secure them, but also encourage their hearts as well. Sometimes we face defeat, and our hearts are discouraged as fear enters our lives. When this occurs, let us allow the LORD Jesus to share the benefit of His presence whereby discouragement parts, and fear flees away. May the LORD keep us aware of Him at all times.

Next time Zephaniah tells the people how “the LORD your God in the midst of you is mighty”, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow…there is more…

Look for the daily devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation”, the marriage book “So, You Want to Be Married”, and the new devotional “One Year in the Sermon on the Mount” in all major bookstore sites, http://www.amazon.com ; http://www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore.

Evil Seen No More Zephaniah 3:15

After sharing concerning the restoration of a “remnant” of people which would be left in Judah after their destruction, Zephaniah the prophet instructed them to “sing”, “shout”, “be glad” and “rejoice”. In chapter three and verse fifteen of his prophesy , Zephaniah gives four reasons they should do so including they shall “see evil” no more where we read:

The LORD has taken away your judgments, he has cast out your enemy: the king of Israel, even the LORD, is in the midst of you: you shall not see evil any more.

The verse begins, “The LORD has taken away your judgments, he has cast out your enemy:” Zephaniah began with the first reason the people should “sing, shout, be glad and rejoice” as he wrote, “The LORD” or “Yehovah or Jehovah who is the existing One and the proper name for the one true God” “has taken away” which means “turned aside, departed and made to come to an end” “your judgments” which refers to “justices, ordinances, acts of deciding a case, procedures and litigations”. Zephaniah continued with the second reason, “he has cast out” or “turned away, declined and cleared out” “your enemy” which refers to “your personal adversary and foe”. Not only did the LORD turn aside the judgments which were against Judah, but He also “cleared out” their enemies as well.

The verse goes on to say, “the king of Israel, even the LORD, is in the midst of you: you shall not see evil any more.” Zephaniah added the third reason they should “sing, shout, be glad and rejoice” as he wrote, “the king” or “royal leader” “of Israel” which means “God prevails” and was “the name of the descendants and the nation of the descendants of Jacob and the name of the nation after their return from exile” “even the LORD” or “Yehovah or Jehovah who is the existing One and the proper name for the one true God” “is in the midst” which means “” “of you” which refers to “the nation of Israel”. Finally Zephaniah continued with the fourth reason as he wrote, “you shall not see” or “look at, perceive, inspect and consider” “evil any more” which means “bad, unpleasant, pain giving unhappiness and misery any longer”. The LORD was to be among the people of Israel and remove everything that caused misery and discomfort to them.

When we consider these words of Zephaniah, we can understand the people of Judah's reasons to rejoice and sing. They should “shout” and “be glad” as the LORD was with them, and He promised to remove all their enemies, turn aside their judgments and remove every evil thing which caused them misery. This is much like it is for those who gives their lives to Jesus Christ. Where “enemies, judgment and evil” were once a part of their lives, Jesus removes their impact upon the believer by being in their midst. Though foes come, and evil pursues, Jesus gives the Christian power to prevail against them. One day soon Jesus will return for His people, the church, and when He does, all enemies, evil and judgments will be put away. For this reason Paul the apostle wrote in the book of Romans in chapter eight and verse thirty seven, “we are more than conquerers through Him who loved us”, and may we always rely upon the One who has dominion and power over all “evil” that shall come against us.

Next time Zephaniah tells Zion to “fear no more”, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow…there is more…

Look for the daily devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation”, the marriage book “So, You Want to Be Married”, and the new devotional “One Year in the Sermon on the Mount” in all major bookstore sites, http://www.amazon.com ; http://www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore.

Sing, O Daughter of Zion Zephaniah 3:14

As Zephaniah continued his prophesy concerning Judah and Jerusalem, he told of their destruction as well as the demise of the countries who surrounded them. Even though the people of Judah would face these dire circumstances, the LORD promised through Zephaniah that a “remnant” of “afflicted and poor people” would remain in Judah who “shall not do iniquity, nor speak lies”. In addition, they shall not have “a deceitful tongue” because they “shall feed and lie down, and none shall make them afraid”. In chapter three and verse fourteen of his prophesy, Zephaniah encourages the “Daughter of Zion” to “sing” and “rejoice” where we read:

Sing, O daughter of Zion; shout, O Israel; be glad and rejoice with all the heart,

O daughter of Jerusalem.

The verse begins, “Sing, O daughter of Zion; shout, O Israel;” Zephaniah began with word “sing” which means “overcome, cry out, shout for joy and give a ringing cry” “O daughter” which refers to “young women or women” “of Zion” which means “parched place” and is “another name for Jerusalem especially in the prophetic books” “shout” or “raise a sound, cry out and give a blast” “O Israel” which means “God prevails” and refers to “the name of the nation after the return from exile”. Not only did Zephaniah desire for the people of “Zion” to “cry out and shout for joy with a ringing cry” but he also wanted them to “raise a sound and give a blast” for the restoration of the nation.

The verse goes on to say, “be glad and rejoice with all the heart, O daughter of Jerusalem.” Zephaniah added, “be glad” or “rejoice, exult and cause to be gladden” “and rejoice” which means “triumph” “with all the heart” or “with the inner man, will and understanding” “O daughter” which refers to “young women or women” “of Jerusalem” which means “teaching of peace” and is “the chief city of Palestine and capital of the united kingdom and the nation of Judah after the split”. Because the LORD promised to save the nation of Judah, Zephaniah desired for the people to “rejoice and triumph” with everything that was within them. The LORD was to be victorious, and they were to celebrate His success.

While we consider these words of Zephaniah, do we have occasion to celebrate with singing and rejoicing in our lives? Can we think of an area where Jesus Christ has been victorious, and now we are “glad and shout for joy” over it? We see a shift in Zephaniah's prophesy as the mournful and woeful proclamation of Judah and Jerusalem's destruction turns into a celebration of restoration, and when we discover how Jesus Christ does this within our lives and others, we too will “Sing” and “Rejoice” as the “Daughters of Zion” who knew what great things the LORD had done for them.

Next time Zephaniah shares how the LORD has “taken away” Judah's “judgment”, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow…there is more…

Look for the daily devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation”, the marriage book “So, You Want to Be Married”, and the new devotional “One Year in the Sermon on the Mount” in all major bookstore sites, http://www.amazon.com ; http://www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore.

The Remnant of Israel Zephaniah 3:13

As Zephaniah the prophet continued to share the LORD's words concerning Judah, Jerusalem and the countries who surrounded them, he shared how the LORD would “leave in the midst of” them “an afflicted and poor people, and they shall trust in the name of the LORD.” In chapter three and verse thirteen of his prophesy, Zephaniah gave more details about this “remnant of Israel” who would be preserved where we read:

The remnant of Israel shall not do iniquity, nor speak lies; neither shall a deceitful tongue be found in their mouth: for they shall feed and lie down, and none shall make them afraid.

The verse begins, “The remnant of Israel shall not do iniquity, nor speak lies;” Zephaniah began, “The remnant” which means “rest, residue and remainder” “of Israel” which means “God prevails” and refers to “the name of the nation after the return from exile” “shall not do” or “fashion, accomplish or make” “iniquity” or “injustice, unrighteousness, wrong and violent deeds” “nor speak lies” which means “declare, converse, command, promise, warn, threaten or talk treachery, fraud and deceit”. Rather than committing “iniquity” and “fraud”, this “remnant of Israel” would begin to live after the principles of the LORD and follow His ways.

The verse goes on to say, “neither shall a deceitful tongue be found in their mouth:” Zephaniah added, “neither shall a deceitful” or “treacherous, fraudulent and lying” “tongue” or “the soft tissue muscle and wedge within the mouth used for creating sound” “be found” which means “attained, secured, acquired and gotten” “in their mouth” which refers to “the opening orifice within the face of a person used for speaking”. No longer would “deceit” be found in their speaking as they would share the truth with one another and put away their cheating through words.

Finally the verse says, “ for they shall feed and lie down, and none shall make them afraid.” Zephaniah continued, “for they shall feed” or “graze, tend and feed” “and lie down” which means “stretch oneself out and cause to lie down” “and none shall make them afraid” which is all one Hebrew word “charad” which means “tremble, quake, move about, be startled and terrified”. Not only would their actions and speech change, but they would be in such peace they can lie in open fields without the threat of foes and enemies coming against them.

When we meditate upon Zephaniah's words, we cannot help but put ourselves in this “remnant's” place. Where they once had to be on their guard anytime anyone shared anything with them, they no longer would deceive one another. They would be free from the threat of terrorism by enemies who sought to destroy them, and they would live in peace even in the open fields. There is a peace and provision of truth which comes from the LORD through a relationship with His Son Jesus Christ. Though our outward man may have attack from time to time, the peace of God remains when we have a relationship with Jesus. Jesus is called, “the Prince of Peace”, and He declared, “the hour comes, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeks such to worship him.” When the “Prince of Peace” arrives, spiritual worship is at it's highest level, and “feeding” and “lying down” with Him becomes our rest. May the LORD help us to know the extent of His truth and peace.

Next time Zephaniah encourages Zion to “sing”, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow…there is more…

Look for the daily devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation”, the marriage book “So, You Want to Be Married”, and the new devotional “One Year in the Sermon on the Mount” in all major bookstore sites, http://www.amazon.com ; http://www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore.

An Afflicted and Poor People Left Zephaniah 3:12

Zephaniah prophesied “in” the “day” of the LORD's judgment upon the “nations” who surrounded Judah, Judah would no longer be “ashamed for all” their “doings” in which they had “transgressed” against God. The LORD promised He would “take away” those that “rejoice in pride” from the “midst” of them, and they would “be no more haughty because of” His “holy mountain”. In chapter three and verse twelve of his prophesy, Zephaniah declared how the LORD would “leave in the midst” of them “an afflicted and poor people” who “shall trust in the name of the LORD” where we read:

I will also leave in the midst of you an afflicted and poor people,

and they shall trust in the name of the LORD.

The verse begins, “I will also leave in the midst of you an afflicted and poor people,...” Zephaniah began with the phrase “I will also leave” which means “remain, be left over and behind, survive, remainder and remnant” “in the midst” or “in the middle or inward part” “of you” which refers to the people of Judah “an afflicted” or “humble, wretched, needy and weak” “and poor people” which means “low, weak, thin and one who is low people”. Although the people of Judah were to face horrific judgment from the LORD, He would leave a humble and poor remnant of people who would continue in the land.

The verse goes on to say, “...and they shall trust in the name of the LORD.” Zephaniah continued with the phrase, “and they shall trust” or “seek refuge, flee for protection, confide and hope” “in the name” which means “reputation, fame and glory” “of the LORD” which refers to “Yehovah or Jehovah who is the existing One and the proper name for the one true God”. Though these people are poor, lowly and weak, they will have confidence in the LORD God Almighty, and they need no other within which to put their trust.

When we think through these words of Zephaniah, we discover the compassion of the LORD for His people. Though the people of Judah had forsaken Him and would be judged for it, the LORD still has a remnant who will remain faithful to Him. Rather than trust in their own abilities, these humble folk will place their faith and confidence in the LORD God Almighty. People who have received Jesus Christ as their personal Savior and LORD do much the same thing. There must be humility that allows all self-sufficiency to be put away and full confidence in Jesus applied. Zephaniah the prophet, though the conduit for horrific news of destruction and devastation, shows and demonstrates our compassionate and yearning LORD. May we be wise enough to hear His tenderhearted pleas and be humble enough to trust in Him when we do.

Next time Zephaniah shares concerning the “remnant of Israel”, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow…there is more…

Look for the daily devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation”, the marriage book “So, You Want to Be Married”, and the new devotional “One Year in the Sermon on the Mount” in all major bookstore sites, http://www.amazon.com ; http://www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore.

Not Ashamed for All Your Doings Zephaniah 3:11

Zephaniah declared the LORD would “turn the people” of Judah to “a pure language”, whereby the would “serve him with one consent”. After doing so, even those “beyond the rivers of Ethiopia” would “bring” the LORD's “offering” to Him. In chapter three and verse eleven of Zephaniah's prophecy, the LORD shares how the people would “not be ashamed for all” their “doings” where we read:

In that day shall you not be ashamed for all your doings, wherein you have transgressed against me: for then I will take away out of the midst of you them that rejoice in your pride, and you shall no more be haughty because of my holy mountain.

The verse begins, “In that day shall you not be ashamed for all your doings, wherein you have transgressed against me: for then I will take away...” Zephaniah began, “In that day” or “time, year or period” “shall you not be ashamed” which is all one Hebrew word “buwsh” and means “put to shame, be disconcerted or disappointed” “for all your doings” or “evil wantonness, deeds and practices” “wherein you have transgressed” which means “rebelled and revolted” “against me for then I will take away” which is one Hebrew word “cuwr” and means “turn aside, away from, depart, avoid and come to an end”. The LORD was to remove all those who caused Judah and Jerusalem shame.

The verse goes on to say, “...out of the midst of you them that rejoice in your pride, and you shall no more be haughty because of my holy mountain.” Zephaniah continued, “out of the midst” or “among, inner part and middle” “of you them that rejoice” which refers to “being exultant, jubilant and joyous” “in your pride” or “majesty, rising up and haughtiness” “and then you shall no more” which means “not again join, add or increase” “be haughty” or “high, exalted, lofty or tall” “because of my holy” which means “separated, sacred, and set-apart” “mountain” or “hill, mount or hill country”. The remnant of those who returned to Judah and Jerusalem were to be a humble people who would not endure the prideful words of those who were haughty because of their plight.

When we meditate upon the LORD's words through Zephaniah, we can imagine what it would be like to be hearing these words. We should keep in mind these words were yet to be fulfilled. Not only is the LORD sharing concerning the destruction that is to come, but also the restoration which would remove their shame. The perspective of God is eternal, and He sees the end from the beginning. With this assurance we are invited to have a relationship with Him who knows all things, and when He declares that “shame” shall be removed, it is as it already is. Judah and Jerusalem found this to be true, and so can those who commit their lives to Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord. May we rejoice in the notion that God Almighty has all things in His charge, and when He restores, He does so thoroughly.

Next time Zephaniah shares how the LORD will “leave an afflicted and poor people”, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow…there is more…

Look for the daily devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation”, the marriage book “So, You Want to Be Married”, and the new devotional “One Year in the Sermon on the Mount” in all major bookstore sites, http://www.amazon.com ; http://www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore.