Keeping with our theme of Joy, Zephaniah begins this verse inviting us to rejoice. For we are all redeemed and restored, is there a more precious gift we could receive?

Zephaniah illustrates our dynamic Savior to us in these passages. First, as King and warrior, a forgiving judge, guiding shepherd, fruitful provider, and finally, a curer of our ailing spirit. Our redemption through Jesus in his coming is cause to cheer triumphantly! Let us bring a joyful spirit to the day, and bring merriment to those around us!

[Zephaniah 3.14-20]

14 Sing aloud, O daughter of Zion; shout, O Israel! Rejoice and exult with all your heart, O daughter of Jerusalem! 15 The Lord has taken away the judgments against you; he has cleared away your enemies. The King of Israel, the Lord, is in your midst; you shall never again fear evil. 16 On that day it shall be said to Jerusalem: “Fear not, O Zion; let not your hands grow weak. 17 The Lord your God is in your midst, a mighty one who will save; he will rejoice over you with gladness; he will quiet you by his love; he will exult over you with loud singing. 18 I will gather those of you who mourn for the festival, so that you will no longer suffer reproach. 19 Behold, at that time I will deal with all your oppressors. And I will save the lame, and gather the outcast, and I will change their shame into praise and renown in all the earth. 20 At that time I will bring you in, at the time when I gather you together; for I will make you renowned and praised among all the peoples of the earth, when I restore your fortunes before your eyes,” says the Lord.

[ WHAT ] is this passage saying and what is a key truth or thought that we learn?

+ God promises the Messiah to deliver his people.

+ God loves and delights in us.

+ God removes our fear and suffering.

+ God is our merciful protector and savior.

[ HOW ] is the Lord calling me to action/obedience?

+ Is there sin to confess or a next step to take? How has it gone since last time?

+ Why does God rejoice over us?

+ What reasons do I have to rejoice today?

+ How would I feel in God’s presence?

+ What changes would his presence bring?

[ WHO ] am I walking with and praying for to discover Jesus?

+ What is my next step?

+ Are there opportunities to share the story of Christmas this Advent season?

+ How do I share the joy of Christmas with non-believers?

+ Who can I invite to a Sunday gathering?