The Book of Nahum is a brief but powerful message of God’s justice and mercy. Written sometime between 663 and 612 BCE, Nahum’s prophecy announces the downfall of Nineveh, the capital of the Assyrian Empire — a nation known for its arrogance, violence, and cruelty. The Assyrians had crushed Israel and terrorized their neighbors, believing themselves unstoppable.
But Nahum declares that God had not forgotten the cries of the oppressed. The prophet speaks of a God who is both mighty in power and rich in mercy — a God who will not allow injustice to stand forever.
“The Lord is slow to anger but great in power; the Lord will not leave the guilty unpunished.” — Nahum 1:3
“The Lord is good, a refuge in times of trouble; He cares for those who trust in Him.” — Nahum 1:7
These verses capture the balance of God’s nature: just and merciful, righteous and kind. Nahum’s name means comfort, and that is exactly what this book offers — comfort to those who suffer under oppression, reminding them that evil has its day, but not the final word.
The empires of the world rise and fall, but the reign of God endures. In every generation, there is a “Nineveh” — a power or system that exalts itself above justice and compassion. Nahum reminds us that God’s justice will prevail and that His people can always find refuge in His care.
In a time when arrogance and cruelty often seem to dominate headlines, Nahum’s words speak deeply to our hearts. God’s justice may appear delayed, but it is never denied. God still brings down the proud and lifts up the humble. And for those who trust in Him, even in the darkest moments, there is peace in knowing that God is both our Judge and our Refuge.
Prayer
Righteous and Merciful God,
You see the suffering of the innocent and hear the cries of the oppressed. You are slow to anger and rich in love, yet You do not let evil go unpunished. Help me to live with faith in Your justice and to find comfort in Your goodness.
When the world feels dark and unjust, remind me that You are my refuge, my strength, and my peace.
Teach me to be an agent of Your justice and a bearer of Your compassion.
In the name of Jesus, the Prince of Peace, I pray. Amen.
Blessing
(From Hymn 666, United Methodist Hymnal)
Shalom to you now, shalom, my friends.
May God’s full mercies bless you, my friends.
In all your living and through your loving,
Christ be your shalom, Christ be your shalom.
The Curious Pilgrims 