June 17
"Her prophets are insolent, treacherous people; Her priests have polluted the sanctuary, They have done violence to the law. The LORD is righteous in her midst, He will do no unrighteousness. Every morning He brings His justice to light; He never fails, But the unjust knows no shame." - Zephaniah 3:4-5 (NKJV)
Do you ever feel like you live in a dangerous world where the greedy prosper and evil people have no shame? If so you are not alone. The prophet Zephaniah felt the same way about the city of Jerusalem thousands of years ago. Speaking through him, God rebuked many different leaders in Jerusalem including judges, prophets, and priests because of their callous disobedience, irresponsibility, and insolence. Yet Jerusalem's citizens, of all people, had no excuse for their sins. Jerusalem, where the temple was located, was the religious center of the nation. Even though many people didn't follow God, the Lord says in this verse he was still "within" the city, present in the midst of corruption and unbelief bringing righteousness, justice, and light.
Likewise, no matter how spiritually desolate our world or nation seems today, God is still here in our midst and is at work for our good and redemption. Have you asked yourself recently, "What is the Lord doing now, and how can I be part of His work?" Seeing God's hand move in difficult times is a challenge, but He has not abandoned us. Instead of apathy and despair, Jesus calls us to, "Seek first the Kingdom of God and his righteousness and then all else will be added unto it." (Mth. 6:33) Being part of God's people is both a privilege and responsibility. If you are a Christian, consider yourself in a privileged position but be careful. God holds us responsible for the purity of our actions, the quality of our example, and the truth of our words. You are needed as never before. What is it that you can do today to make your corner of the world a better place? Pray, decide, act boldly and then trust the results to God! Your actions and prayers are of far more importance than can be measured or understood today. Only time will show their true impact. Your life, prayers, and witness matters!
Prayer: Jesus, May I act today for Great Good in Bad Times! Amen
Meditation For The Day: Evil is on a slippery slope. God offers hope!
Brief Devotions For Busy Lives: Daily Spring Renewal Paperback – February 21, 2017, by Rev. Dr. Mary Johnson (Author)
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