Focal Passage: Zephaniah 1:1-11
C.S. Lewis once wrote, “We all want progress,” and he was right. There is an innate desire within us to learn, create, grow and develop. Our culture reflects this too. There are rapid technological advances and constant globalization. Businesses are connecting to global markets, and consumers are browsing foreign fashion from the comfort of their kitchen table. Transcontinental flights are carrying people greater distances with ease, as well.
As Christians, such worldwide access ought to spur us on to greater work for the glory of God among all nations. It should also draw us closer to the absolute truth of the gospel. There is one God who sent one Savior to redeem the sins of the world. Only He is worthy of worship; only He can save. Without Him, there is no hope in judgment. Before God, all that matters is a person’s standing with Christ.
Connectedness is a two-way street, though. There is also the sobering reality of non-Christian influence on the people of God.
We have the Word of the Lord instantly available on our smartphones and tablets, and more access to biblical resources than ever before. Still, are we heeding the warning Zephaniah gave so many years ago? Are we allowing God’s grace to humble us towards daily confession, repentance and evangelism?
Zephaniah prophesied to remind the people of God whom they stand before and who alone is worthy of their worship. We need to hear and be reminded of his words. We need to live for the sake of the Kingdom of God.
“We all want progress,” Lewis wrote, “But progress means getting nearer to the place where you want to be. And if you have taken a wrong turn, then to go forward does not get you any nearer. If you are on the wrong road, progress means doing an about-turn and walking back to the right road; and in that case the man who turns back soonest is the most progressive man.”
What kind of progress are you making, dear Christian? Whose kingdom are you building?