Devotionals from my Bible app: God Never Changes (Zephaniah 3:17)

[Brief note prior to sharing the devotional: I still struggle mightily with remembering this. I agree with all the below, but when I have challenges come my way I still easily forget who God is according to His Word. One of the primary truths is that the Lord will never leave me nor forsake me (Deuteronomy 31:6, Hebrews 13:5); and yet when the [dung] hits the fan, I have to be reminded of this (and then re-reminded), because I need it. God is indeed good. And He never changes, even though people change. The Lord remains the same yesterday, today, and forever. (Hebrews 13:8) Amen.]

God Never Changes

Between the year 640 to 608 BC, the prophet Zephaniah spoke to the people of Israel. He warned them of God’s judgment, but he also reminded them of God’s promise for their future.

“The LORD your God is in your midst, a mighty one who will save; he will rejoice over you with gladness; he will quiet you by his love; he will exult over you with singing.”
Zephaniah 3:17 ESV

We aren’t the people of Israel in 640 BC hearing this, but, as students of God’s Word, we can also find comfort in Zephaniah’s words.

We know that God came into our midst through Jesus and that He gave us His Spirit when we believed (John 1:14; Galatians 4:6). We also know that we are deeply loved by God (1 John 4:16). Paul teaches that the peace of God will guard our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus when we pray to Him (Philippians 4:6-7).

So although we are not Zephaniah’s original audience, we can find comfort in knowing that God is the same throughout all generations. He is still in our midst, He still actively rescues people, He still rejoices over us, and He still covers His children with His unending love.

He is still our mighty God, and He cares for those who come and call on Him.

So today, take some time to thank God for His faithfulness and reflect on His unchanging character. Then, re-read Zephaniah 3:17 and speak that verse out loud over yourself and your family.

https://bible.com/bible/59/zep.3.17.ESV


https://bible.com/bible/59/zep.3.17.ESV