The LORD does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart. – 1 Samuel 16:7b

Because God knows the heart of every person, Acts 15:8a, that which looks all-put-together, outwardly to people, does not fool God.

Recall that God is a God of judgement and a God of mercy.  To those who choose their own way apart from God, they WILL be punished.  But to those who followed Him faithfully, He will show mercy.

It’s so easy to think that God should punish so-and-so, or “they” got away with this-or-that. Or to express how life is just so unfair. Or thinking, what is the point of following God when “bad stuff” happens to me, people I care about, and all around me?

It’s during these times that this verse might help – The Lord isn’t really being slow about his promise, as some people think. No, he is being patient for your sake. He does not want anyone to be destroyed, but wants everyone to repent. – 2 Peter 3:9

Zephaniah, chapter 1, ends with, He will make a terrifying end of all the people on earth. YIKES!!

But thankfully that is not the end of the story.