If you’ve never read Jonathan Edwards’ sermon, “Sinners in the hands of an angry God,” then read Nahum. The same point is made in both, even though the historical settings differ.
Nineveh had experienced God’s forgiveness when she repented under Jonah’s ministry. But her repentance was short lived. Now her heart was hardened again, so God’s wrath was poured out upon her and she was devastated.
Two truths in Nahum’s message are, first, God is slow to anger; but second, God is jealous. There’s a point beyond which His anger is kindled into a flaming fire which devours and totally destroys. This is a picture of God’s woe-some wrath!
Read Nahum 1:2-7: “The Lord is a jealous God and an avenging God. The Lord takes vengeance and is filled with wrath. The Lord takes vengeance on His foes and maintains His wrath against His enemies. The Lord is slow to anger and great in power…The Lord is good, a refuge in times of trouble. He cares for those who trust in Him.” God protects those who take refuge in Him, but He’ll woefully punish those who persistently rebel against Him. It is, therefore, foolish to test God’s patience and love. Trust Him and you’ll be safe. Test Him and you’ll be scorched.
Keep this in mind as you read Nahum. Hide this truth in your heart so you remember it whenever you’re tempted to stubbornly do your own thing in defiance of God.