Nahum 3:1 Woe to the city of blood, full of lies, full of plunder, never without victims!
From a literary standpoint, verses 1-3 with their rich sensory descriptions, really strike me. We are placed into the scene with the flashing swords, glittering spears, crack of the whips, clatter of the wheels, blood and broken bodies everywhere.
Nahum 3:2 The crack of whips, the clatter of wheels, galloping horses and jolting chariots!
Not only that, but there is a pervading sense of hopelessness and defeat in this scene: Not only can no one and nothing save them, but all who hear of their defeat will celebrate.
Nahum 3:3 Charging cavalry, flashing swords and glittering spears! Many casualties, piles of dead, bodies without number, people stumbling over the corpses….
Lord, Thank You that this fate is not the end for those who trust in You, for those who repent and return. While this chapter is rich with detail from a literary standpoint, from a personal standpoint, I do not wish to ever suffer this fate. Thank You that You not only show me the way out of this proud trap, but also that You keep after my heart, showing me what is keeping me from You and how to fully return. I don’t deserve anything You give me, Lord, but I am so grateful. Amen.
Nahum 3:19 Nothing can heal you; your wound is fatal. All who hear the news about you clap their hands at your fall, for who has not felt your endless cruelty?
Have a blessed day.