Fasting With Jesus – Day 18
God Rejoices Over You
Today, on Day 18 of our fasting journey, we are invited to deepen our understanding of God’s heart toward us. Zephaniah 3:17 paints a tender yet powerful picture of His presence, His protection, and His delight.
Zephaniah 3:17 declares:
“The Lord your God is in your midst,
a Mighty Warrior who saves;
He will take great delight in you;
He will quiet you with His love;
He will rejoice over you with singing.”
At first glance, these words seem gentle and poetic — but within them lies a truth echoed throughout Scripture.
God Is Near to You
“The Lord your God is in your midst…”
God’s nearness is not symbolic; it is real and active. Psalm 46:1 reminds us that “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.”
During a fast, this truth becomes even more meaningful. He is present in your hunger, your prayers, your quiet moments, and your breakthroughs.
You are not walking this day alone.
He Fights for You
“…a Mighty Warrior who saves.”
Exodus 14:14 affirms the same promise: “The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.”
God defends you when you feel weary, covers you when you feel exposed, and carries you when your strength runs out.
Your battles are not yours alone — they belong to Him.
God Delights in You
“He will take great delight in you…”
This truth echoes Psalm 149:4: “For the Lord takes delight in His people; He crowns the humble with salvation.”
Fasting can reveal our weaknesses, but God looks at the posture of the heart. He delights in your desire to draw near to Him. He rejoices in your obedience, your seeking, and your surrender.
You bring joy to His heart.
His Love Brings Peace
“He will quiet you with His love…”
Isaiah 26:3 says, “You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are stayed on You, because they trust in You.”
The love of God does more than comfort — it silences the storms inside you.
Where anxiety tries to rise, His love settles you.
Where restlessness speaks loudly, His peace becomes the stillness.
He Sings Over You
“He will rejoice over you with singing.”
This image beautifully reflects Psalm 32:7:
“You surround me with songs of deliverance.”
God does not remain silent about you — He celebrates you.
He sings over your life, your growth, your repentance, your perseverance.
His song is one of joy, victory, and affection.
A Closing Reflection for Day 18
As you move through this day of fasting, let Scripture guide your heart:
God is near (Psalm 46:1).
God fights for you (Exodus 14:14).
God delights in you (Psalm 149:4).
God gives peace (Isaiah 26:3).
God surrounds you with songs of deliverance (Psalm 32:7).
Zephaniah 3:17 gathers all these truths into one promise:
You are seen.
You are loved.
You are protected.
You are rejoiced over.
Walk through this day resting in the presence of the Mighty Warrior who saves and the Father who sings over His children.
Lord, thank You for being present in every moment of my life. Thank You for fighting for me, delighting in me, and quieting my heart with Your love. As I continue this fast, help me to rest in Your peace, trust in Your strength, and listen for the song You sing over me. Surround me with Your presence today and lead me in Your truth. Amen.
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