Paraphrase

Study – Where is Cush and her rivers (3:10) – It seems to be the upper Nile region, but I have always assumed it to be Babylon.

God’s consuming fire (3:8) will simultaneously purify the lips of God’s people so that they may call on the name of the Lord and be fit to serve Him (regeneration).  God’s worshippers are scattered outside Israel (in Egypt? – So what is the time-frame? à Josiah 640-609 B.C.)  On the face of it, it looks like Jerusalem is so wicked and devoid of desire for God that God has to look elsewhere to find His worshippers.

The day of judgment/restoration will include forgiveness of sins and purification of the city of Jerusalem.  The prideful and haughty will be removed.  The meek, humble, as well as those who trust in God will remain.  The remnant of Israel will be holy and will dwell in peace.  Verse 13b sounds like Isaiah 11:6-9.  Isaiah wrote before Zephaniah so it is to be expected that we would hear an echo.  The holy remnant of Israel can only be really fulfilled in the advent of Jesus.

What do I Learn about God?

God does not play the entitlement game.  Just because they lived in the holy city and worshiped at the temple, it does not mean God was pleased with them.  In fact, He removed them completely.  On the other side of the coin, God is intent on pursuing a people so that they will pursue Him wholeheartedly.  They will be holy and live under the peace of God’s blessing.

What do I Learn about Me?

God hates pride and arrogance but loves meekness, humility and trust in Him.  This gets at the heart of what God wants from me.  Pride is the unseen hindrance to many a person’s walk with God.

How can I Live according to this Passage?

Meekness, humility and trust all start and live in the heart.  They are the OPPOSITE of what we normally practice.  It is a rare quality.  Actually, they are God-given qualities that I must cultivate in my own character and leadership.  It will also keep me from lies and deceit (verse 13).