Day 200 – Nahum: Climate of the times

“Look! A messenger is coming over the mountains with good news! He is bringing a message of peace. Celebrate your festivals, O people of Judah, and fulfil all your vows, for your wicked enemies will never invade your land again. They will be completely destroyed.” Nahum 2:15 NLT

Nahum served as a prophet of the Lord to the people of Judah around 633 to 612 BC. Manasseh, one of Judah’s most wicked kings, was in rule. He openly defied God and persecuted God’s people. Assyria, the world power at the time, made Judah one of its vassal states. The people of Judah aspired to emulate the powerful Assyrians, who seemed to possess all the power and wealth they desired. Nahum’s message was that the mighty empire that oppresses God’s people would soon tumble and completely destroyed.

Nahum’s message applies today to those who defy God, do evil, and oppress others. They will not escape His wrath. But because He is a merciful God still calls them to redemption through Jesus Christ, who brings the good news and a message of peace.

Prayer: Father, so many times I wonder, “Why are people getting away with wickedness?” and I hear the same sentiment out of the mouths of believers. Thank You for showing us in the book of Nahum that, though it seems they are getting away with it, Your judgment is over them, too, like over the city of Nineveh. Lord, I want to thank You for Your mercy and love towards them and for giving them time to repent and turn to You. Equip us, Your children, Lord, to reach them with Your truth. Amen.