From the Pulpit...

Nineveh was a wicked city - a symbol for the godless tyranny and cruelty of the whole nation of Assyria (Jonah 1:2). In the midst of this terrifying display of the Lord's destructive power, Nahum affirms that He is good and He is a stronghold - a place of refuge and safety that insulates His people from the attacks of the enemy (Psalms 37:39-40). God's judgement does not contradict His goodness; it is directed against the enemies of His people and proves His commitment to those who trust in Him. Nahum describes the judgement directed specifically toward the Assyrians, Nineveh, and the king of Nineveh. As the Lord promised to deliver His people from the oppression of the Assyrians, He urged them to fulfill the vows made to Him in their prayers for deliverance. The time of celebration was soon to commence.