The Hebrew verb for I will leave
is the word from which we get the word remnant
(in noun form in Zephaniah 3:13). This opening clause in verse Zephaniah 3:12, But I will leave in your midst,
appears to answer to the fear that could have come from the Lord’s words earlier in the chapter, that he will bring in worldwide judgment (Zephaniah 3:6), and will remove from your midst your proudly exultant ones
(Zephaniah 3:11). God indicates that the removal is not absolute. Rather, his assurance that he will leave a remnant reaffirms his promise to give Abraham posterity (Genesis 15:1–6). He will create a people that he always desired to have as his own (Exodus 19:5–6; Deuteronomy 7:6)1
12 But I will leave in your midst a people humble and lowly. They shall seek refuge in the name of the LORD,