In the second chapter of his prophetic book, Zephaniah goes on to warn the nations that have historically oppressed Judah that something terrible is coming for them. Also tucked away in Zephaniah 2 is a verse giving advice on how to adopt a survival strategy to withstand the great day of the Lord.
Judah's enemies are listed, one by one, with the dire news that destruction awaits them, too. Gaza, Ashkelon, Ashdod, Ekron (four of the five cities of the Philistines) will be emptied (vs. 4). The Cherethites are also singled out, although it is not known precisely where this tribe of people was located in the larger region (vs. 5). Moab and Ammon also come in for judgment, to become like Sodom and Gomorrah (vs. 8-11). Even the Ethiopians (of whom Zephaniah himself might be a descendant as he is listed as son of "Cushi" in 1:1) are told that death is coming for them (vs. 12). Of course, Assyria with its capital city of Nineveh is also certain to be judged (vs 13-15).
If all the world is to suffer in this way, what, then, can be done? Zephaniah does not leave his readers without hope. He includes a command to those who have the heart to humble themselves and yield to the Lord. If they adopt the right attitude, there is a possible way out. "Seek the Lord, all you humble of the land, who do his commands; seek righteousness, seek humility; perhaps you may be hidden on the day of the Lord's wrath" (vs. 3).
Whether we are living in the last days or not (and, in my mind, the jury is still out), we can all benefit from heeding Zephaniah's words in 2:3. This is a teaching for all seasons, for it is always appropriate and right to seek the Lord, His righteousness, and our humility. It is a hope-filled survival strategy for God's people.
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