[:en]SCRIPTURE: ZEPHANIAH 3
“The Lord within her is righteous; he does no wrong. Morning by morning he dispenses his justice, and every new day he does not fail, yet the unrighteous know no shame” (Zephaniah 3:5)
“Then I will purify the lips of the peoples, that all of them may call on the name of the Lord and serve him shoulder to shoulder” (Zephaniah 3:9)
“But I will leave within you the meek and humble. The remnant of Israel will trust in the name of the Lord. They will do no wrong; they will tell no lies. A deceitful tongue will not be found in their mouths. They will eat and lie down and no one will make them afraid.” (Zephaniah 3:12-13)
“The Lord your God is with you, the Mighty Warrior who saves. He will take great delight in you; in his love he will no longer rebuke you, but will rejoice over you with singing.” (Zephaniah 3:17)
“At that time I will gather you; at that time I will bring you home. I will give you honor and praise among all the peoples of the earth when I restore your fortunes before your very eyes,” says the Lord” (Zephaniah 3:20)
THE FUTURE OF JERUSALEM (vs. 1-20)
The leaders in Jerusalem were rebellious. They were oppressive, disobedient and defiled. They refused to heed God’s warnings and continued to commit greater sins. Even their prophets were arrogant and their priests profaned the sanctuary. So God had to cut off the nation, demolish their stronghold and destroy their cities.
When the prophet looked ahead, he saw worshipers bringing offerings to the Lord. God had purified their lips, and made them humble & meek. They will be regathered and restored to their land. They will call on His name and have peace.
The people will rejoice and sing because the Lord was with them. Their sorrow will be removed and their honor and fortunes will be restored.
LESSON:
If we sin, turn to Him in repentance. He will forgive us and restore our joy and peace. Then we shall rejoice and sing praises to Him.[:]