August 3, 2016: SOAP #2435: Nahum 1-3; John 5

Scripture: Nahum (NIV) 1:2 The LORD is a jealous and 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. 3 The LORD is slow to anger and great in power; the LORD will not leave the guilty unpunished. His way is in the whirlwind and the storm, and clouds are the dust of his feet.   —BUT— 7 The LORD is good, a refuge in times of trouble. He cares for those who trust in him, 8 but with an overwhelming flood he will make an end of Nineveh; he will pursue his foes into darkness.

Observation: At the same time God was angry with Nineveh for their extreme cruelty, He was loving and caring for Judah. God is like a very tender and loving mother who has intense hatred for a dog or someone who has harmed her child. The two opposite emotions logically co-exist within her heart. Her love motivates her anger. The Father’s love for His Son motivates his anger against those who reject Jesus.

Application: It is good for me to remember that my loving God can be a terror. I do not think I fully comprehend the love our Heavenly Father has for His Son, Jesus. It is foolish not to fear God. (Matthew 10:28) The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, but love is the goal of the relationship. God’s perfect love overcomes fear. (1John 4:18)

Prayer:   Holy Spirit, although the Father’s great love for me draws me near to His heart, let me never forget that His awesome holiness and power make Him One to be feared. May I not foolishly think I can get by with things that displease Him. Amen

Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity!