How can we find peace in a world filled with injustice?
Nahum 1 paints a powerful picture of God’s character as both a righteous judge and a refuge for those who trust in Him. This chapter reminds us of His sovereignty, justice, and steadfast love, offering comfort and hope in the midst of trials.
Key Verse:
“The Lord is good, a stronghold in the day of trouble; and He knows those who take refuge in Him.” – Nahum 1:7 (NASB)
Background Context:
Nahum 1 opens a prophecy directed against Nineveh, the capital of Assyria, a nation notorious for its cruelty and oppression. While the prophecy warns of God’s judgment on Nineveh, it also reveals His goodness and faithfulness to His people. This chapter highlights the dual aspects of God’s character—His righteous wrath against sin and His compassionate care for those who trust in Him.
(Continued and expanded after scripture.)
God Is Awesome
1The oracle of Nineveh. The book of the vision of Nahum the Elkoshite.
2A jealous and avenging God is the LORD;
The LORD is avenging and wrathful.
The LORD takes vengeance on His adversaries,
And He reserves wrath for His enemies.
3The LORD is slow to anger and great in power,
And the LORD will by no means leave the guilty unpunished.
In whirlwind and storm is His way,
And clouds are the dust beneath His feet.
4He rebukes the sea and makes it dry;
He dries up all the rivers.
Bashan and Carmel wither;
The blossoms of Lebanon wither.
5Mountains quake because of Him
And the hills dissolve;
Indeed the earth is upheaved by His presence,
The world and all the inhabitants in it.
6Who can stand before His indignation?
Who can endure the burning of His anger?
His wrath is poured out like fire
And the rocks are broken up by Him.
7The LORD is good,
A stronghold in the day of trouble,
And He knows those who take refuge in Him.
8But with an overflowing flood
He will make a complete end of its site,
And will pursue His enemies into darkness.
9Whatever you devise against the LORD,
He will make a complete end of it.
Distress will not rise up twice.
10Like tangled thorns,
And like those who are drunken with their drink,
They are consumed
As stubble completely withered.
11From you has gone forth
One who plotted evil against the LORD,
A wicked counselor.
12Thus says the LORD,
“Though they are at full strength and likewise many,
Even so, they will be cut off and pass away.
Though I have afflicted you,
I will afflict you no longer.
13“So now, I will break his yoke bar from upon you,
And I will tear off your shackles.”
14The LORD has issued a command concerning you:
“Your name will no longer be perpetuated.
I will cut off idol and image
From the house of your gods.
I will prepare your grave,
For you are contemptible.”
15Behold, on the mountains the feet of him who brings good news,
Who announces peace!
Celebrate your feasts, O Judah;
Pay your vows.
For never again will the wicked one pass through you;
He is cut off completely.
Reflection on Nahum 1:
- God’s Justice Is Perfect:
The chapter begins by declaring God’s righteous anger against sin and His power to bring judgment (Nahum 1:2-3). He is slow to anger but will not leave the guilty unpunished. This is a reminder that God sees all injustice and will hold the wicked accountable. Are you trusting in God’s perfect justice rather than seeking revenge or becoming discouraged by injustice? - God’s Power Is Supreme:
Nahum describes God’s power over creation, demonstrating His sovereignty (Nahum 1:4-6). No force or power can stand against Him. Are you finding peace in the knowledge that God is in control, even when life feels chaotic? - God Is a Refuge:
Verse 7 offers a beautiful declaration of God’s goodness and care for those who trust in Him. He is a stronghold in times of trouble and knows those who seek refuge in Him. Are you turning to God as your safe place in difficult times? - The End of Oppression:
The chapter assures God’s people that their enemies will be destroyed and that their suffering will come to an end (Nahum 1:12-15). This promise reflects God’s faithfulness to His covenant people. Are you placing your hope in God’s ultimate victory over sin and evil?
Summary Key Points:
- God’s Justice Is Sure: He sees and judges all sin and injustice.
- God’s Power Is Absolute: Nothing can stand against His will.
- God Is Our Refuge: Trust Him as your safe place in times of trouble.
- Hope in God’s Deliverance: He is faithful to bring victory over evil.
- Trust His Timing: God’s justice and care come in His perfect timing.
Application:
Reflect on areas in your life where you need to trust in God’s justice and refuge. Release any bitterness or fear, knowing that He is in control. Rejoice in His faithfulness and share the hope of His salvation with others who may feel burdened by the weight of injustice or trials.
Closing Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for being a righteous judge and a refuge for Your people. Help us to trust in Your justice and power, even when the world seems filled with chaos and injustice. Teach us to turn to You as our stronghold in times of trouble and to place our hope in Your ultimate victory. May our lives reflect Your goodness and bring glory to Your name. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.
John Golda
Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.