Definition: This shall they have for their pride, because they have reproached and magnified [themselves] against the people of the LORD of hosts.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Zephaniah 2:10. It’s a pretty powerful and serious message about pride and disrespect. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is saying that if people become too proud and arrogant – they start to think they're better than everyone else, or even God – they will be humbled by their own actions. It’s a warning against pride. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “This shall they have for their pride…” This is the core of the message. It’s not about material possessions; it’s about spiritual pride . Think of it like this: Pride is when you feel like you deserve more than others, or that you're better than everyone else. “…because they have reproached and magnified [themselves] against the people of the LORD of hosts.” Let’s break that down further: “Reproached”: This means they started to criticize, argue with, or even insult God and His people. They were speaking poorly of Him and showing disrespect. “Magnified”: This is the key word here! It means they grew bigger in their arrogance – they became puffed up with self-importance. They weren’t just disagreeing; they were taking it to an extreme, making themselves seem better than everyone else. “People of the LORD of Hosts”: This refers to God and His people. It's a reference to a powerful and revered figure – often seen as the leader of Israel in ancient times. It emphasizes that this isn’t just about any disagreement; it's about a deliberate attempt to dominate or elevate themselves above others. So, what does it mean practically? This verse is telling us that when we become arrogant and think we're better than everyone else, it can lead to serious problems – potentially even rebellion against God. It’s a reminder that true respect comes from recognizing our place in God’s plan and treating others with humility. In short, it warns against pride and suggests that excessive self-importance can be dangerous. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Relate it to a specific biblical story or example?