GOD KNOWS those who TRUST in HIM!
September
28 Bible Reading: Nahum Chapters 1-3
GOD KNOWS those who TRUST in HIM!
“The Lord is good, a
stronghold in the day of trouble; and He knows
those who trust in Him." (Nahum 1:7)
Nahum
focused on three unique aspects of
God’s character. First, God would
destroy Nineveh because of His justice.
He does “not leave the guilty unpunished”
(v. 3). His compassion for the people of Judah caused Him to oppose those who
oppressed His people. Second, God
would destroy Nineveh because of His
omnipotence (v. 3). Third, God
would destroy Nineveh because of His
goodness (v. 7). He is a refuge for those who look to Him for help in times
of trouble.
Jehovah God is
intrinsically good; and His goodness is manifested in two ways: He protects those who trust, but His enemies will
experience destruction. When He punishes, no one can withstand Him. His
judgment would sweep like an overflowing flood through Assyria, destroying
Nineveh, her capital. Yet He is good to those who trust in Him.
The
Assyrians regarded Nineveh as an invincible fortress. Beyond its massive walls,
a system of canals, moats, outworks, and armed guards provided strong defenses.
But as strong as Nineveh is, this city will be destroyed by a flood (v. 8) and
a fire (v. 10). However, God’s people will be safe in their refuge, Jehovah
God. If people put their trust in God, they will experience Him as good and a
defense against trouble. When help is needed God will be their impregnable
fortress (Psalms 46:1). God will be a real
stronghold for those who trust in Him! However, if they follow wickedness,
they will experience Him as destruction.
For us who
obey God and walk in His footsteps, this verse is the best news of all. Because
we know that the Lord is good, we can endure the tribulations of life. In times
of trouble and difficulty, we need to focus totally on God’s justice, power,
and mercy.
