This morning I have been spending time with the prophet Nahum. He received his message of judgment over Nineveh through visions. It is quite fascinating how he describes God when he is pronouncing the judgment on a cruel nation that had subdued other nations.

The Lord is a jealous God, filled with vengeance and wrath. He takes revenge on all who oppose him and furiously destroys his enemies! The Lord is slow to get angry, but his power is great, and he never lets the guilty go unpunished (Nahum 1:2-3 NLT) 

In the first verses the prophet captures the essence of God. The Lord is a jealous God who is punishing those who sin. Yet he is slow to anger! His vengeance is never uncontrolled! His fury is never hitting blindly. He is slow to anger! Even in the midst of his wrath he is basically a good God! He is bringing judgment on his enemies in order to bring restoration to his covenant people who has suffered under the enemies of God!

The Lord is good. When trouble comes, he is a strong refuge. And he knows everyone who trusts in him (Nahum 1:7).

For the land of Israel lies empty and broken after your attacks, but the Lord will restore its honor and power again (Nahum 2:2 NLT)