How Concerned Are You?

O. T. #2255   "How Concerned Are You?"

August 11, 2022

Summary of Zephaniah

LET IT GLOW

There is always a small remnant of believers devoted to the Lord which remain faithful during the moral and spiritual decay of Israel. This is true during the times of the Minor Prophets;  Elijah, Daniel, Isaiah, Ezekiel, Ezra, Nehemiah, Jeremiah were included.

I like how Wiersbe described those godly remnants as the "company of concern." They are good examples for us to follow:

1. They were totally committed to the Lord. An example is Amos who was an ordinary farmer and shepherd called to deliver God's message in his time. Although without proper training, he was committed to doing great things for the glory of the Lord. they had courage to be different, walk the narrow road, no matter what it cost them. They prayed for those in authority.
2. They had the proper fear of God in their hearts. Not only does God love people, but He also judges them. they believed the Word of God and from God. Therefore, they called the sinners to repentance because they knew God was going to judge them through disasters and conquering empires. So they interceded for their nation in prayer.
3. Composed of believers, they realized that God wanted them to "flock together." Christians need fellowship with other believers, loving and praying for one another, as well as encouraging others. They seek to be salt and light in their work, raising children, and investments of time and money. They don't try it alone, though. Nehemiah enlisted help of the Jewish leaders and common people as they rebuilt the wall around Jerusalem. He prayed, God supplied the needs and defeated their enemies. the task was completed in 52 days and songs of praise were heard for miles of Jerusalem.

 LET IT GROW

     4. Those people knew the importance of good leadership in the nation. As the kings and

           priests were unwilling to trust and follow God for help needed, so did the people. As

            the leaders turned to idolatry, so did the people (except for the remnant). 

Edward Everett Hale, author of the Man Without a Country wrote:

I am only one, but still I am one. I cannot do everything, but still I can do something. And because I cannot do everything, I will not refuse to do the something that I can do.

 Paul said it this way in the letter to the Philippians (4:13; 2:13), I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me... for it is God who works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure.

 It is time to be concerned, American, before our freedoms of worship and gathering are removed. Will you join me in praying for our nation and its leadership? Will you be the remnant of salt and light?

LET IT GO 

Help us to be a company of concerned believers, Lord Jesus.

Renew our love for You and other believers.

Use us to proclaim Your salvation, grace and mercy and love today.

Keep us focused on You and eternity.

Fill us with hope and joy and peace..