Daily Devotions
Zephaniah
"Be silent in the presence of the Lord GOD"
Text: Zephaniah 1:7
ADMONISHING OF THE PEOPLE
The prophets of the Lord had the unenviable task of preaching difficult messages to the people. Many of the people who heard these messages were often upset and resentful.
1. Many protested innocence.
2. Others denied the charges.
3. Still others plotted revenge on these faithful servants of God.
SILENCE BEFORE GOD
The prophet Zephaniah had a further solemn word to deliver to the people.
“Be silent in the presence of the Lord GOD;
For the day of the LORD is at hand,
For the LORD has prepared a sacrifice;
He has invited His guests.”
Zephaniah 1:7
1. “Be silent in the presence of the Lord GOD”
a) This should have been basic and intuitive response when one comes into the presence of God.
b) Instead the Lord had to proclaim this word to bring about a cessation of negative responses.
c) The presence of the Lord God:
i) His holy majesty was not recognized.
ii) His personal presence was not regarded well.
iii) His word of judgment should have caused awe and fear but it did not.
iv) Such was the state of backsliding of the nation of Judah.
2. “The day of the LORD is at hand”
a) This is a reference to the Day of judgment.
b) It was closer than the people had realized.
c) It was so close it was “at hand”.
3. A cryptic reference to the Day of judgment
a) It would be a Day when God comes to His people.
b) Any visit from the Lord should be an occasion
i) For joyful worship.
ii) For a wonderful time of communion with God in worship.
c) But Judah would not be the guests that God would invite to this special time of worship.
The nation had gone so far away from God that it had to hear these solemn words proclaimed!