Together in Christ: 'Joyful Songs' — Zephaniahs 3:16-17

While I know this message is to Jerusalem and the Israelite people facing hard times, I believe it is also a good word for us as believers. We should add this promise to our quiver of relationship blessings. Hebrew and non-Hebrew believers make up God's people who can claim this promise. ^[1] The Lord, YHWH, lives among us through the Holy Spirit. He promises to be available to us and among us. ^[2] As we share in genuine fellowship, support each other through hard times, applaud each other for achievements, and worship God together, He delights in us with gladness. How precious to know we can make our Father happy as His children by loving each other! ^[3]

The reality of our fragile world of decay ^[4] and the evil one's impact on our world ^[5] ensures that not all of life is "cheery and bright." In tough times, we can look to God as our Savior. We can remember the depth of His great love already demonstrated in Jesus. ^[6] Since God would go to such great, sacrificial lengths to save us, how much more will he not also sustain us and calm our fears?! ^[7] Wow! How sweet to have relationships with other believers and also know we are part of God's family that brings our Father delight!

In the last two sentences of our verses, I hear a promise that my precious wife has used to bless me many times. She prays for the Holy Spirit to minister to me during the night as I sleep. The result is that God, who sings over me, ^[8] also gives me songs in the night. ^[9] I often awaken with a song playing in my head and blessing my heart while reminding me that God is saying to me:

"Cheer up... Don't be afraid! For the Lord, your God is [with you.] He is a mighty Savior. He will take delight in you with gladness. With his love, he will calm all your fears. He will rejoice over you with joyful songs."