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As an artist and religion scholar, I hope to offer something honest and personal, as I navigate the same world and serve the same God as you. I pray these reflections bring you value when you read them, as they do me when I write them.
-Rondall Reynoso
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God Rejoices Over the Humble (Zephaniah 3:17)
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“The Lord, your God, is in your midst, a warrior who gives victory; he will rejoice over you with gladness; he will renew you in his love; he will exult over you with loud singing.”
Zephaniah 3:17
Reflection
This verse is part of a song of joy.
It is speaking to the remnant of Israel, declaring that God fights on their side, rejoices over them, and loves them.
However, it must be understood that this follows a condemnation and a judgment against Israel. The remnant stayed faithful, and God honored that.
Some theologies argue that the Church has replaced Israel, others argue that passages like this prophecy are literally about Israel. From my perspective, though, what is important is to understand the pattern and character of God. When God’s people are not faithful, God rebukes them and allows, even brings, judgment against them.
When His people are faithful, He is their warrior, their strength, their protection. God showers us with His love, but He also expects that we develop proper character. This chapter describes the remnant as “humble and lowly,” doing no wrong, and uttering no lies.
The mistake that Israel and the Church make over and over is the belief that God will bless us in our arrogance and pride because He has chosen us. But God has chosen the meek and humble. When we lose those qualities, we no longer reflect the character God has chosen to honor.
