8-5-07 Zephaniah 3:15-17

Zephaniah 3:15-17 (NAS)
The LORD has taken away His judgments against you, He has cleared away your enemies. The King of Israel, the LORD, is in your midst; You will fear disaster no more. In that day it will be said to Jerusalem: "Do not be afraid, O Zion; Do not let your hands fall limp. The LORD your God is in your midst, A victorious warrior. He will exult over you with joy, He will be quiet in His love, He will rejoice over you with shouts of joy.

Zephaniah 3:15-17 (NRSV)
The LORD has taken away the judgments against you, he has turned away your enemies. The king of Israel, the LORD, is in your midst; you shall fear disaster no more. On that day it shall be said to Jerusalem: Do not fear, O Zion; do not let your hands grow weak. 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.

Jehovah the Lord has completely abolished the judgment that you were under. He has removed it, causing it to come to an end. Your punishment has been made null and void. You are under no condemnation.

The Lord your God has cleared away your enemies and those who are hostile to you. Your King has drawn you near to Himself. When you are gathered with your family and friends, He is there in your midst. You know you are safe in His presence, for no evil can remain where He is. Nothing can injure or harm you when you remain close to Him.

Now you have no reason to fear or dread. You do not need to be disheartened or let your hands hang down in dejection. You are not alone; nor are you forsaken. Instead you are full and satisfied. Jesus has brought you abundance and you are complete.

The Lord your God is strong and mighty. He prevails over all of your enemies. He saves you and delivers you. He has liberated you in every area, making you victorious. You bring Him joy and He exults over you. He will not keep silent about His love for you. In fact, He is overcome with that love, shouting it out with a ringing, joyful cry. He proclaims for all to hear that you are His child and He takes great pleasure in you.