A Day Of The Trumpet And Alarm

God’s people were steeped in idolatry (v. 4), and they even mixed their worship of the true and “living God” (Jer 10:10), with the false god “Malcham” (v. 5). Zephaniah warned them about God’s impending judgment and the urgent need for repentance (v. 7)! That day depicts a significant event when “the trumpet and alarm” will be sounded to warn them of their upcoming punishment (v. 12). They shall resonate with urgency to awaken a sleeping soul (Isa 56:10). Their “fenced cities” and “high towers” symbolize a false sense of security (Amos 6:1), that could not save them from God’s wrath! The prophet’s trumpet call applies to us today as bible-believing Christians. We can easily fall into the same pattern of spiritual indifference (Prov 6:9), and lukewarmness (Rev 3:16).

Sin in our lives often results in a lack of prayer and Bible reading (Isa 59:2), which causes us to become sluggish and unmotivated to do the Lord’s work (Rom 12:11). At times, we try to pursue some worldly ambitions (Mt 6:19); instead of seeking “first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness” (Mt 6:33). When we set our affections “on things on the earth” (Col 3:2), then we are trying to fortify our towers of pride and making it high (Prov 16:18). Our sense of self can become inflated and cloud our judgment (Mt 6:23).

Thus, leading us towards the path of wickedness and immorality (Prov 4:14). Our “fenced cities” may involve the comforts of life (Lk 12:19), or the modern technological distractions that we are engaged in (1 Cor 7:35). These would eventually lead us away from God’s will for our lives (Gal 5:16). Zephaniah’s alarm is a call to awaken all of God’s children, “because the days are evil” (Eph 5:16). Our days will grow darker (Lk 17:26), and become “worse” (2 Tim 3:13). But we must remain “stedfast” (1 Cor 15:58). Let the trumpet sound and let our Lord lead us to a place of humility and devotion in His presence! God bless you!

- Pastor Melito Barrera