God Delights in His Children
Have you ever found yourself tempted to skip to the ending of a book while in the middle of a gripping storyline?
I’ll admit, I have experienced the feeling of urgency to know that everything will be okay. I can’t always resist.
When faced with a crisis, how often do we desire to skip ahead in order to know how things will turn out? Thankfully, we already know our ending...victory! In Zephaniah 3:17 (pictured), the prophet Zephaniah encourages us as we face uncertainties. He reminds us that we can rest in the truth that God always wins. Let's consider this verse together.
“The Lord your God is among you”
God is among us, not beside us as a silent bystander, but actively dwelling with us. Oh, the comfort and rest God gives with His presence as we navigate our lives this side of eternity. How will you let this truth shape how you view your circumstances?
“A warrior who saves”
Yahweh is a strong, brave, and mighty warrior who is already victorious. The battles of anxiety, fear, shame, guilt, or inadequacy cannot overtake you; Christ has guaranteed victory. He is beside you fighting for and with you (Ex 14:14). Will you instruct your heart to be silent in this truth?
“He will rejoice over you with gladness”
God expresses extreme joy over us! How can this be, when we are so quick to rebel? Zephaniah instructs us that God enthusiastically pours His joy over us. The joy of the Lord is our strength (Nehemiah 8:10). Will you let His joy be your strength today?
“He will be quiet in his love”
Our Redeemer renews us with His constant love. Does the truth that your God cherishes you calm your heart? God’s passionate love for His children brings peace to their hearts. Will you join Him in the quietness of His love and find His peace?
“He will delight in you with singing”
God proclaims great delight in His children. How can it be that our Savior takes such great satisfaction in us? He expresses joy over us, not because we deserve it, but because of what Jesus has done for us on the cross (I Peter 2:9).
Is your focus on your circumstances or God’s presence, victory, joy, and love?
Take heart, my sister. The Lord's banner over you is victory and love!
Meet the Author
JoAnna Baird
JoAnna, her husband of 3 years, Daniel, and their one year old daughter reside in Greenville, SC. Her days are filled with the joyful mundane tasks of being a homemaker and mother. She is passionate about pointing others to Jesus through the truths and promises found in His Word.
When time allows, JoAnna dabbles in her hobbies of sewing, baking, thrifting, and gardening. Her ideal day would begin with coffee followed by spending time with family building lifelong memories.
