Paraphrase

Study: Where is Ammon?

When God judges His people His wrath generally extends out toward Israel’s enemies as well.  So Philistia will be destroyed and left desolate.  But Israel, who is likewise being judged, will inherit Philistia.  It seems that Philistia is being judged for their cruelty to Israel.  Cush will likewise be crushed.  Assyria will also be left desolate.  (Note the change to the third person singular – The pronoun change actually comes at verse 11 where Zephaniah seems to take back over the narration).  Animals will inherit Assyria.  (Also note in verse 11 where it is said that every nation will worship God).

What do I Learn about God?

Whatever punishment God’s people receive will not compare to the justice unmixed with mercy that God’s enemies receive.  Also God tends to send His judgment toward His people first.

What do I Learn about Me?

I have received mercy upon mercy.  Even God’s judgment against the wicked is mercy towards me (2:10-11).  Why do I say, “Woe is me,” when I have no right or reason to say so.  I am so self-consumed sometimes.

How can I Live according to this Passage?

I must love the lost because I have received free grace and mercy, but I must also uphold justice and righteousness.  I must hold to God’s form of justice and declare it boldly as God does.  However, I must also hold out mercy since I don’t know the future as God does.