Bible Passage: Zephaniah 3

12 I will leave in your midst
A meek and humble people,
And they shall trust in the name of the LORD.

Meekness and humility form the character of those who have striven to be after the heart of God. For Jesus said, “Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” (Matthew 11:29)

When God shed His power and robed Himself in flesh and blood to sacrifice Himself for man, He retained the essence of His heart – His love, meekness and humility.

Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus, who, being in the form of God, did not consider it robbery to be equal with God, but made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant, and coming in the likeness of men. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even the death of the cross. (Philippians 2:5-8)

Many troubles in the church are caused by those who are proud. Though they may claim that they are servants of God, they strive to be like God only in His power and not in His heart. For God as Jesus could be seen to only care for the things of God and for the salvation of the people, in compassion and even in anger.

In the end, in the glorious church of God, only a meek and humble people will be left.

13 The remnant of Israel shall do no unrighteousness
And speak no lies,
Nor shall a deceitful tongue be found in their mouth;
For they shall feed their flocks and lie down,
And no one shall make them afraid.”

The proud and self-seeking lie and justify their lies. The remnant of the church cannot lie. They would rather be hurt and suffer for the Lord. They boldly speak the word of truth and they do not whisper in shadows to the unsuspecting. By these actions, we recognise the workers and beloved of the Lord.

LORD, who may abide in Your tabernacle?
Who may dwell in Your holy hill?

He who walks uprightly,
And works righteousness,
And speaks the truth in his heart;

…

He who swears to his own hurt and does not change;

(Psalms 15:1,2,4)