While many of us are familiar with the story of Jonah, we are perhaps less acquainted with the book of Nahum.

Though the city of Nineveh repented and turned to God in the time of Jonah, a hundred years later, in the time of Nahum, we find that they have returned to their old ways and sins.

As a result, the Book of Nahum is written as a prophesy against Nineveh, to proclaim their impending punishment and downfall.

Yet, as with all other Old Testament scriptures, the Book of Nahum ultimately is written for our learning (Romans 15:4, 1 Corinthians 10:6).

Wrath of the Lord

Some of us might find the book of Nahum quite difficult to read. Right from the start, it describes the fearsome wrath of the Lord, taking vengeance on His adversaries (Nahum 1:2).

Many people today think that they can out-smart or out-wit God. However, God being almighty and all-knowing, He will make an utter end of any plans or conspiracies against Him (Nahum 1:8-11).

And this is a punishment on a scale that is unfathomable to us. When we travel, we may be fascinated by the great mountains and boundless seas. Yet, when God takes action, the seas and rivers will be dried up, the mountains will quake, and the hills will melt (Nahum 1:4-5).

On this great and fearsome day, Nahum 1:6 asks the question, "Who can stand?" This question is also asked in Revelation 6:15-17, where king , commanders, mighty men, slaves, etc., all try to hide in caves and find refuge in the rocks of the mountain. But as Nahum 1:6 says, the rocks serve no protection as the Lord is able to destroy them.

In the face of sin, shame, and the judgment of God, it is easy to hide and attempt to seek refuge in our careers, hobbies, enjoyments, travels, possessions, etc. However, before the wrath of God, none of these things can protect us.

How then can one find refuge? Only in the Lord (Nahum 1:7).

Comfort of the Lord

Interestingly, the name Nahum means "Comfort of the LORD", a stark contrast to everything we have read so far. Amidst all the messages proclaiming the fearsome wrath of God, we also see a message of hope and comfort.

While God proclaims judgment to His enemies, He also comforts His people. Nahum 1:15 echos Isaiah 52:7, prophesying of the coming of the Messiah, the one who will bring peace and good news. When He comes, His people shall no longer be afflicted, and the bondage of sin shall be broken off from them (Nahum 1:12-13).

Indeed, as Christians, we are so blessed to know our Lord Jesus. While we were still sinners, He died for us, saving us from the wrath of God (Romans 5:8-9).

Yet, have we truly taken refuge in Him?

To take refuge in our Lord means to trust Him. It means to let go and entrust our circumstances and our future into His almighty hands. It means to see Him as our one and only source of peace and comfort in this world.

To take refuge in Jesus also means to rely on the Holy Spirit to overcome our weaknesses and be truly free from the grips of sin. After all, to avoid the wrath of the Lord, we need to be holy, righteous, and blameless in His sight.

In our weaknesses and imperfections, we still often do transgress against our Lord. Yet, rather than making us immediately face the fullness of His wrath, He chastises and disciplines us out of His great love.

Though the wrath of God is great, He is slow to anger (Nahum 1:3). He is merciful and gracious, abounding in mercy (Psalm 103:8). His anger is reserved for those who harden their hearts in rebellion against Him.

However, if we continue in our ways and refuse to rely on the Holy Spirit to pursue holiness, one day we too will face the full extent of the wrath of God.

May we always find peace beyond understanding and joy inexpressible as we take refuge in our Lord, but may we also never forget that the kindness and forbearance of the Lord is meant to lead us to repentance (Romans 2:4).