The Secret of Life and Happiness

O. T. #2252   "The Secret of Life and Happiness"

August 8, 2022

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. (verse 17) 

Zephaniah 3-Part 6

LET IT GLOW

People can spend a lifetime searching for happiness. They try to find it in new cars, new houses, new clothes, new spouses, a new job, a new community etc. Those things may only give us temporal joy. If you are looking for a purpose and meaning in life, as well as joy and peace, come to Jesus. He is the only way.

We know that the LORD Himself removed His hand of judgment upon Judah/Israel and dispersed their enemies. The prophet tells Jerusalem to cheer up and not be afraid!

What does verse 17 tell us? 

• God comes to live among His people. 
• He is a mighty Savior.
• He will take delight in us with gladness.
• With His love, God will calm all our fears.
• He will rejoice over us with joyful songs.

If that doesn't wet our whistle, our whistle is broken. God has removed His hand of judgment-that alone gave Israel something to shout about. Babylon was conquered by Persia and the Jews were set free. 

The only person that can make us happy is the LORD God. When we pursue happiness in things other than in God, then sin cuts off our fellowship with God. Zephaniah points out that gladness results when we allow God to be with us. We do that by faithfully following Him and obeying His commands. Then God rejoices over us with singing. If we want to be happy, draw close to the source of happiness by obeying God. (Life Application Study Bible)

It is up to us-follow Jesus or live for our self.

LET IT GROW

When it is all said and done, Israel will be a new nation. The Jews will look by faith upon the Messiah whom they crucified, believe in Him, and enter into a new life in the promised kingdom. Sin will be removed (verses 11-13); God's people will rejoice (verses 14-17); the nation of Israel will be restored. (verses 18-20)

It is with deep repentance and confession that leads to salvation. Submitting humbly to the righteousness of God comes only by faith in Christ. (Rom. 9:30-10:13) Faith in Christ makes all things new, a new heart and a new attitude.

Are you singing the praises of Jesus Christ today? Is He your Savior? Then we all have something to shout and sing about!

If not, then today you can have that assurance of heaven after death, peace here in the meantime, and joy in the here and now. Ask Jesus to forgive your sins, be your Savior right now. He will hear your prayer, dear one.

LET GO

Let the King of my heart be the wind inside my sails, the anchor in the waves; oh, He is my song. You are good Lord Jesus!

You are never going to let me down. You are good!

God is over all.