The book of NAHUM is about God's judgement on NINEVEH ~which was a wicked & impressive empire. God's people wanting to hear this might have been terrifying to them if God was about to pour out judgement, would anyone really be safe??
In the middle of that sobering message. about God's impending judgement, NAHUM, reminds them that the LORD is good, even when He tears down evil, His heart toward His people does not change. He remains a refuge, a stronghold for those who trust in Him.
We can relate to this as well, if we look around seeing moral decay in our world, the cultural hostilities against Christians, injustice is happening everywhere. It can feel sometimes like God is silent or even asleep while the world around us unravels. Have you ever felt like this? Have you wondered if God is really aware of your situation or does it seem like He is asleep, or not paying attention to your prayers?
Sometimes it can feel this way even when it isn't true. NAHUMS words reminds us that God has not turned His faith away, His judgement on evil isn't a sign of His absence, but proof of His holiness. Even in chaos, He draws His people closer and keeps us safe. *In ancient time a refuge was a fortress, a walled city, a place where the enemies could not reach you* **this is the picture that NAHUM gives us of God, Himself**
When the world shakes, the news is frightening, our own life feels uncertain, God is my STRONGHOLD, then NAHUM adds something important, he says this care is for those who take refuge in Him it is not just about knowing that God is good, it is about trusting enough to run to Him.
FAITH opens the door to experience His protection **LET THIS SINK IN**
DOUBT builds a wall around our hearts
TRUST on the other hand places us under His covering
When we choose to rest in Gods goodness, rather than to fear what what is happening around us, we discover His personal care in a VERY personal way
In NAHUM's day God judged a violent empire, but He preserved His people, in our day, when we see corruption, hostilities rising, we cling to the same truth. Gods heart hasn't shifted, His goodness is steady, His refuge is real, His care is experienced mostly when we lean on Him in faith.
Christ himself is our ultimate refuge, on the cross He bore the judgement that we deserved, so that we could feel safe with Him forever.
Because He lives we have a fortress that nothing can shake.
The LORD is good , He's our stronghold, he knows when we take refuge in Him
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