Hold thy peace at the presence of the Lord God.
-Zephaniah 1:7
Summary of Zephaniah chapter 1:
1. This book in some Hebrew copies is called "Sepher Zephaniah", the Book of Zephaniah. Its title, in the Vulgate Latin version, is, the Prophecy of Zephaniah; and, in the Syriac version, the Prophecy of the Prophet Zephaniah; and so the Arabic version calls him a prophet; and he is the last of the minor prophets that prophesied before the Babylonish captivity. The time of his prophesying, as well as his, parentage, are expressed, Zephaniah 1:1
2. A threatening of the destruction of Judah and Jerusalem, an utter destruction, by the Chaldeans, Zephaniah 1:2-4.
3. A charge against them for their gross sin, which provoked God to bring that destruction upon them, Zephaniah 1:5-6.
4. He goes on in the rest of the chapter, setting both the judgments before them, that they might prevent them or prepare for them, and the sins that destroy them, that they might judge themselves, and justify God in what was brought upon them. They must hold their peace because they had greatly sinned, Zephaniah 1:7-9.
5. They shall howl because the trouble will be great. The day of the Lord is near, and it will be a terrible day, Zephaniah 1:10-18.
Such fair and timely warning as this did God give to the Jews of the approaching captivity; but they hardened their neck, which made their destruction remediless
Today’s Verse:
When he comes forth, and appears in the way of his judgments, do not dispute the point with him, or pretend to offer reasons against his proceedings, or in order to disprove the justice of them; stand in awe and reverence of him, who is the Lord God omniscient and omnipotent, holy, just, and true; humble yourselves under his mighty hand; be still, and know that he is God; and let not one murmuring and repining word come out of some one’s mouth.
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, it is my great pleasure to praise you and worship you on everyday morning for keeping me in healthy alive. I am grateful that you planted a seed in my heart and gave me the resources and opportunity to use my gifts to serve others.
Lord, please show me what you want me to do next with the gift of my work. Teach me to make wise decisions and keep my eyes focused on the path you set before me. Help me to avoid temptations and distractions that lead me astray.
Lord, give me the courage and faith to follow your call – even when it means taking risks. Protect me from the doubts and fears that prevent me from fulfilling your purpose for me. Help me to trust in you and feel your never-ending love and presence. In the name of Jesus, Amen