A daily rhythm of Scripture and prayer.

Read Zephaniah 3:17-20 slowly, then read the surrounding chapter. Notice the original audience and the relationship between warning, repentance and hope. Do not turn a promise or judgment addressed to a particular people into an automatic personal prediction. Attend especially to Zephaniah 3:17: “The Lord thy God in the midst of thee is mighty; he will save, he will rejoice over thee with joy; he will rest in his love, he will joy over thee with singing.” Observe: Who is speaking or acting, and what changes across these verses? Identify a word, action or contrast in Zephaniah 3:17-20 that helps you explain the passage in your own words. Reflect: Which reason for gratitude comes from the text itself, even if your circumstances are difficult? Ground your answer in Zephaniah 3:17 and its surrounding verses. If the connection to this month’s theme is indirect, let the passage’s own meaning lead. Respond: Thank God for something specific and express appreciation to someone who has served you. Write one sentence explaining how your response follows from Zephaniah 3:17-20, and return to it this evening.