“Let us strip off every weight that slows us down…Let us run with endurance the race God has set before us. We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith” (Hebrews 12:1-3).

We have experienced so many blessings in America’s history, and in the Western nations. It has been a rude awakening to realize that our material prosperity and freedoms and independence have also drawn us away from relying on God. We rarely hear warnings as good news. But a growing, praying remnant have risen up, willing to see the rot of corruption and decay within our own borders. 

I read the historical records of Judah and see it repeated in our time. The people would not listen to the voice of God and would not accept correction. They stopped trusting in Him. The rulers and judges were greedy. The prophets were proud, reckless impostors. The priest disobeyed God’s instructions (see Zephaniah 1:6, 12; 3:2). 

Those who carried authority and influence and economic resources seemed to prosper and carry favor, even while obviously facilitating a decline in the moral, spiritual fabric of society. But God’s justice will prevail. And redemption for the world is foremost on His mind.

He said: “Wait for Me…until I rise up and deal with the nations. Then I will change the impure speech of the people to the pure speech of praise. They will call on Me, worship my Name together and serve me shoulder to shoulder in one accord” (see Zephaniah 3:8-9).

He will cleanse and purify His people who live as though He is irrelevant. And there is always a remnant, a humble people, who will find their hiding place in the beautiful Name of YAHWEH. What He spoke to them applies for today.

Listen to His word:

God has cancelled out His judgments against you.

He has turned your Accuser away—you have nothing more to fear.

Do not yield to fear; don’t let your heart get discouraged.

At the right time, He will deal with those who mistreat you.

He will rescue you, restore your honor, and give you a good name— 

a name of distinction among all the nations.

He will be your guide and restore your fortunes.

Your God—your Warrior Savior—dwells with you, taking delight in you.

He will quiet your troubled heart with His love  

and sing over you with joy (see 3:11-20).