God’s Promises
November 23
Read: ZEPHANIAH 3:14-20
“Jerusalem will be told: ‘Don’t be afraid. Dear Zion, don’t despair. Your God is present among you, a strong Warrior there to save you” (vv. 16-17, MSG).
The Israelites were nearing the end of their exile when this passage was written. How they must have delighted to hear Zephaniah’s words of hope. When they had all but lost their belief in God’s goodness, the prophet reminds them of God’s promises: they will no longer fear disaster (v. 15), God is present (v. 17), and God will bring them home (v. 20).
How forgetful we are as human beings! We constantly need to be reminded of God’s promises and purpose for our lives. Even when disaster comes, God’s people may trust and rest in the promise that he is present with us, he has not forgotten us, and he is leading us home.
Lord God, nothing we face today is beyond your ability to help. Help us to hear your voice and remember your promises: you are always present with us, we do not need to fear anything in this world, and you are leading us home. AMEN.
About the Author
Stephani Voland | My husband, Phillip, and I serve as Covenant global personnel in partnership with the Free Evangelical Church in Kiel, Germany. We serve on a ministry team with two other full-time pastors. I preach regularly, provide pastoral care, and serve on the prayer team, while Phillip leads our small group ministry and coordinates refugee ministries and church evangelism and outreach. We work together to provide counseling to engaged and married couples. We have three beautiful daughters, ages eleven, seven, and four, who love life in Germany. God continues to faithfully provide all we need to thrive as a family. It is a privilege to partner with God’s kingdom work in Kiel!
