It was the long-awaited moment when everything would be put right in the world. On "the day of the LORD" God would finally destroy Israel's enemies. At last justice would come. After years of oppression, Israel would watch their enemies melt before God's anger.

Zephaniah now proclaimed that the day of the Lord was "near and coming quickly." The prophet piled up pictures of distress and trouble to illustrate the terror of this day. When God released his anger, darkness and chaos would overtake the created world.

But Judah would also hear God's verdict on their sin. Judah believed they were immune to judgment, but the Lord said they too deserved to be punished.

The Bible tells us that another day of the Lord is yet to come. Jesus will return to judge the living and the dead—and that includes you and me.

On that day, our silver or gold will be unable to save us. All of our accomplishments and wealth will count for nothing. But the gospel assures us that Jesus has taken God's judgment for our sin upon himself. If we believe in him, the day of the Lord will be a day to share in God's victory over sin and darkness.

Are you ready?