Zephaniah 1

“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, NKJV)

The theme of this little book is “the day of the LORD.” Zephaniah uses this expression more than any other Old Testament book. It refers to the time in the future when God will judge the world for its rebellion and evil and establish His kingdom on earth. Whether we realize it or not, this is what we are praying for when we say, “Your kingdom come, your will be done on earth as it is in heaven.”

Zephaniah’s prophecy was the last Old Testament book written before the Babylonian exile. In his generation, the “day of the LORD” came upon them with the invasion of King Nebuchadnezzar and the destruction of Jerusalem. But this was only a foreshadow of the great tribulation that will occur at the end of the age.

Whenever God’s judgment comes, what are His people to do? We can start by being silent in the presence of the LORD. When we have exhausted ourselves of our own efforts and words, we can listen to the still, small voice. He can soften our hearts; He can cleanse us with His words; He can rekindle our first love. He can lead us to repentance. God has already prepared the sacrifice for sin. He gave His precious Son to hang on the cross in our place and to remove all our sin, guilt and shame. He invites us to come and receive His forgiveness, cleansing, and comfort.

“Heavenly Father, we know the day is coming when you will judge the world. Even now we sense that judgment is beginning in your house. Teach us to be silent in your presence. Thank you for preparing the sacrifice for our sins. Convict us, cleanse us, and restore us to intimacy with you and sincere love for others. We ask this in Jesus’ name. Amen.”