Nahum 2-3

ScriptureNahum 3:19Nothing can heal you;    your wound is fatal.All who hear the news about you    clap their hands at your fall,for who has not felt    your endless cruelty?Observation - What does it say?The prophet Nahum declares the coming destruction of Nineveh, the great capitol of Assyria. It will be a complete destruction, and no one will pity them. Why? Because the world around them suffered at the hands of the Assyrians. The destruction of Nineveh, to the rest of the world, was the destruction of their oppressors – their enemies.The Assyrians were notoriously barbaric, killing all in their path. They would pile the skulls at the entrance to the cities as a sign to any who came by that the Assyrians had been there. They would plundering all the city had that was valuable and burn the rest. They were ruthless and like the prophet said, “…who has not felt your endless cruelty?”Understanding - What does it mean?You reap what you sow!King David found himself deeply troubled when he observed the prosperity of the wicked in his day. He wrote this (Psalm 73):¹² This is what the wicked are like—    always free of care, they go on amassing wealth.¹³ Surely in vain I have kept my heart pure    and have washed my hands in innocence.¹⁴ All day long I have been afflicted,    and every morning brings new punishments.He was deeply troubled. It had appeared that you don’t reap what you sow! Righteous are suffering and the wicked are without trouble. But then God gave him revelation…¹⁹ How suddenly are they destroyed,    completely swept away by terrors!Although the wicked may prosper for a time, they will eventually reap the destruction they’ve sown. And, thought the righteous may suffer for a time, they will eventually reap eternal life if they don’t give up!

The Apostle Paul reminded the Christians of his day, “Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows.”  (Galatians 6:7)

Life ApplicationWhat are you sowing?

Am I sowing wickedness or righteousness? Am I sowing faith or doubt? Am I sowing for my own benefit or the benefit of others? Am I sowing in prayer or in gossip?

We are always sowing. And I’m reminded that if it doesn’t have to do with loving God or loving others, I’m not going to like the harvest.

God, may we learn from the Assyrians that we will never get away with evil. Purify us your people that we may shine bright like stars in the universe, showing the world what you’re like. May we be intentional to sow love and righteousness. We rejoice that although we may suffer for a time, we will receive a glory that far outweighs the suffering. Amen.

 

- Levi Thompson

 

To check out the discussion or to join in click here.