Day 262

The Wrath of God on Nineveh

Nahum Introduction

It has been about a century since Nineveh repented under the preaching Jonah. And yet Nineveh is as wicked a city as she has ever been. But she fears no judgment; after all, her walls are wide and high and she is surrounded by a deep moat. But God speaks through Nahum of her destruction that's not a warning of doom that could be averted like Jonah's, but a description of her certain coming death. God's prophecy comes true to the letter, and Nineveh's grave was so effectively dug that it lay undiscovered for 2500 years.

Nahum and Nineveh: Prediction and Fulfillment. The prophecies of Nahum are detailed beyond belief. Here are just a few with their actual historical fulfillment:

The siege of the city would be lengthy (3:14). According to Diodorus, the siege dragged on for two years.

The Ninevites would be destroyed while they were drunk (3:11). "Meantime the Assyrian king distributed to his soldiers meat and liberal supplies of wine to make merry upon. While the whole army was carousing, the enemy made an unexpected attack by night" (Diodorus ii. 26:4).

Nineveh would be destroyed by a flood (1:8; 2:6). Archeological evidence indicates a devastating flood in the city.

Nineveh would be destroyed by fire (1:10; 2:13; 3:13, 15). The alabaster slabs from the palace were nearly reduced to lime, indicating intense heat from fire in the city.

Scripture

September 18—Nahum 1-3: Flood and Fire for Nineveh

Observation

If ever there was a city deserving the title "Here to Stay," Nineveh was that city. Surrounded by a 100-foot-high wall, guarded by 200 towers that stretched upward another 100 feet, and protected by a moat 60 feet deep and 140 feet wide, the great city appeared invincible. But onto the scene steps Nahum—a prophet of God—to declare that Nineveh will fall. Less than half a century later the prediction of God's spokesman comes true as the great city topples before the Babylonian onslaught, never to be rebuilt again.

Application

What does the fall of an ancient city more than 2500 years ago have to do with our life today? What abiding lesson can we draw from Nahum's potent prophecies? 

Perhaps one of the most important is this: God keeps his Word. What he promises, whether blessing or punishment, he will deliver every time! Do you believe that? Do you pray that way? Do you live that way?

The detailed prophecies of Nineveh's fall came true to the letter. What does that tell us about the detailed promises God has made in his Word to us? Read 2 Corinthians 1:20.

Prayer

God, we pray for your help in setting our standard of living to have the faith that are pleasing to you. We also know that if we don't obey your Word with all the warnings you have given us our future will be doomed just like the Ninevites and our eternal inheritance will be voided. That's why we consider all things a loss, that we may gain Jesus Christ's salvation. Thank you for eternity. In Jesus's name! Amen!

© Odessa Mathis about my Father's business! 2020