“The Lord, your God, is in your midst, a warrior who gives victory; he will rejoice over you with gladness, he will renew you in his love; he will exult over you with loud singing.” Zephaniah 3:17 NRSV
Often when we think of God, we remember his love, compassion, and kindness. But God is also a warrior. Today’s verse reminds us that in our battles, God is in the thick of the confrontation fighting for us. Satan can launch every conceivable weapon it has, anxiety, addiction, illness, financial woes, you name it, at you, and God is with us as our defender. He is not only is he fighting for us, but he will give us victory. We do not know what form that victory will take, but with him, loss is not an option. After the battle, he stands with arms spread wide in love to refresh us. He is so delighted to save his cherished children that he is going to sing loudly. We can picture him with his arms enfolded around us, singing so the world can hear, “Look, this is the child that I have saved. I did it for them, and I do it for you. Satan has no power. I bring victory.”
Our good and gracious God, we give you thanks not only for love and compassion but also for your defense. You guarantee us victory and rejoice in our deliverance. Lord, we ask for your help in remembering those times you have liberated us. Let us unabashedly share our experiences with others. In the name of your Son, Jesus, we pray. Amen.
Blessings!
Pastor Tim
