Upper Loft Meditation - Zephaniah 3

“The Lord your God is in your midst, the Mighty One, will save; He will rejoice over you with gladness, He will quiet you with His love, He will rejoice over you with singing.” - Zephaniah 3:17

The third chapter in Zephaniah contains a dramatic dichotomy, judgment plays out as the prelude to restoration and purification both in Israel and among the nations. In the closing part of this chapter, the prophet sings of the future reign of the Lord, His victory over His enemies, and His love for and presence with His people. The church may sing this song now in celebration of Christ’s victory on the cross and in anticipation of HIs triumph when He returns.

Verse 17 contains the response of God towards our worship. This verse has three key points:

“He will rejoice over you with gladness” - This delight and rejoicing is based in the character of God who “delights in mercy”. (Micah 7:18)

“He will quiet you with His love” - This phrase “quiet you” may also be interpreted “is quiet” or “rests”. In the larger picture, God has been revealed as the Warrior who is “mighty to save.” This image is now quieted by victory and the loving relationship between God and His people. The Lord’s purging and transforming work of grace creates a renewed people who acknowledge His rule and trust in His name.

“He will rejoice over you with singing” - God’s response to our worship is to sing a song to us. And since we, as His children, are made in His image, then that song has been placed in our hearts to enable us to respond to God.

Have you sung a song to God today?