Mature Motivation

DAY 256
6-16-10
ZEPHANIAH 1-3


Good Morning!

Considering the assurance of judgment is a vital part of remaining faithful. Some say that fear is not a good motive for faithfulness. They are right only if fear is the only motive. However, love for God; thankfulness for salvation and blessings; along with the assurance that God will judge the unfaithful are very mature motivations.

Zephaniah let Judah know that God will judge and destroy them for their sin. With that assurance, God gives them incentives to repent and live righteously. The other assurance is that God will forgive and bless those who repent and walk humbly before him.

2:1-3 Gather together, gather together, O shameful nation, before the appointed time arrives and that day sweeps on like chaff, before the fierce anger of the Lord comes upon you, before the day of the Lord's wrath comes upon you. Seek the Lord, all you humble of the land, you who do what he commands. Seek righteousness, seek humility; perhaps you will be sheltered on the day of the Lord's anger.


3:12-13 But I will leave within you the meek and humble, who trust in the name of the Lord. The remnant of Israel will do no wrong; they will speak no lies, nor will deceit be found in their mouths. They will eat and lie down and no one will make them afraid.

Love God. Fear God. Obey God. Thank God!

Barry