Once again, I find myself in a tough set of circumstances, and once again, the verse Zephaniah 3:17 "crosses my path". So I have updated this post with some additional impressions as I read it through again. Here is the post from this past March with "enhancements":It has been a tumultuous week hampered by physical ailments (both my son and I), personal issues, and ministry uncertainties.
In the midst of all this upheaval, I have come across Zephaniah 3:17 three times. That kind of repetition usually means God is holding up a neon sign saying "pay attention and listen to what I'm saying!" The verse says: The Lord your God is with you, he is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, he will quiet you with his love, he will rejoice over you with singing.
Two short sentences, packed with power and promises...break it down with me:
The Lord your God: He is Lord...THE Lord...He has all authority. But while He is over me, He is reachable...He is mine.
is with you: He is a God of personal relationship. He is beside me everywhere, at all times.
he is mighty to save: He is powerful. He saves me both eternally and from harm.
He will take great delight in you: He is caring. The Lord...mighty and awesome God...delights in ME. Not just a passing fancy, it is GREAT delight...I please Him...He is pleased with me.
He will quiet you with His love: He is loving. When I am anxious and fearful...when I am angry...when I am in despair...this strong and mighty God who delights in me reaches down to quiet my churning soul...with His LOVE. He loves me. Can you hear him? Hush my child...do not fear...do not despair...I am with you...I love you.
He will rejoice over you with singing: He is expressive. I love to sing praises to the Lord...it brightens my day and lifts my mood...but this says He will sing over ME with rejoicing. Does this mean I brighten His day too? Rejoice means "to be glad...take delight in". Remember what I said about repetition? It's an indication to 'take notice...hear what I'm saying'. Yes, I give him joy.
What are you facing today? Are you feeling less than worthy? Unloved? Anxious? Alone? Be still and know that He is God...your God. He is with you and His power and might will save you. But not only does He wield power and majesty, He is tender and loving. You are so worthy that He rejoices over you in song. Doesn't the thought of that bring a smile to your face? Let go of your worries and bask in His love.
Beautiful and concise. So glad you shared it. A perfect reminder for me right now. Thanks, Toni!
ReplyDeleteI had to share my thoughts...He did send it my way 3 times :) I hope it brought you comfort and joy to know how pleasing your are to Him my PSF. You have a huge heart and He most definitely rejoices in that with song!!
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