Day 198 – Nahum: Introduction and theme
“The Lord is good, a strong refuge when trouble comes. He is close to those who trust in him. But he will sweep away his enemies in an overwhelming flood. He will pursue his foes into the darkness of night. Why are you scheming against the Lord> He will destroy you with one blow; he won’t need to strike twice!” Nahum 1:7-9 NLT
As the shrill whistle pierces the air, all the action on the sports field comes to a halt, and the referee shouts “Foul!” Rules, fouls, and penalties are part of any game and are regulated and enforced vigorously by referees, umpires, judges, and other officials. Every participant knows that boundaries must be set and behaviour monitored, or the game will degenerate into chaos.
Just as any sports game, the world also has laws – boundaries and rules for living that God established. However, we often disregard these regulations with contempt, hiding their infractions or overpowering others and declaring that might makes right. God calls this sin – wilful disobedience, rebellion against His control, or apathy.
Assyria was the most powerful nation on earth at this time. Proud in their self-sufficiency and military might, the Assyrians plundered, oppressed, and slaughtered their victims. One hundred years earlier, Jonah had preached in the streets of Nineveh, and the people had heard God’s message. But generations later, evil was again reigning, and the prophet Nahum pronounced judgment on this wicked nation. This once great city is referred to as “the city of murder” and “a city of cruelty”. Far removed from living a God-called life, and no one seemed to blow the whistle.
As you read Nahum, sense God’s wrath as he avenges sin and brings justice. Disobedience, rebellion, and injustice will not prevail but will be punished severely by our righteous and Holy God.
Prayer: Father, thank You that You are ruler of this world and that You’ve set clear commands for us to obey through love. Your values and laws are not to punish us, but to protect us and allow us to grow in a relationship with You. Forgive me, Lord, when I break the rules and thank You for Your grace and forgiveness when I repent. Amen.
