A shallow ‘revival’!
Scripture reading for September 21: Nahum 1-3
A century earlier, Jonah had come to Nineveh and called the people to repentance. A great wave of conviction fell on leaders, men and even the animals. All repented and called on the Lord and He had mercy and saved them from destruction. (Jonah 3:6-10) In an amazing revival, these people got serious and averted the destruction that God had promised!
A century later, God sent Nahum back to Nineveh with another message for them. This time it was a decree of divine displeasure and coming destruction. (Nahum 2:13) Their allotted time for change had come to an end and they had failed the test. During the earlier revival, they humbled themselves and sought the Lord, but returned to their wicked ways. The revival did not truly affect their hearts.
In the midst of this prophecy, Nahum spoke a Word of hope and encouragement to Judah. He gave them a word of “good news” and peace. The wicked would no longer invade them and they would be restored to their land. (Nahum 1:15) This good news speaks to all of us today as well. We know that God has defeated evil through the cross of Jesus Christ. The triumph of Jesus Christ is already sure and He will ultimately defeat all wickedness and evil and set up His reign of peace on the earth.
God always warns people of coming disaster. He uses prophets for the heathen nations and sends them with words that are clear and easy to understand. Nahum’s Word: “. . all because of the wanton lust of a harlot, alluring, the mistress of sorceries, who enslaved nations by her prostitution and peoples by her witchcraft.” “I am against you,” declares the Lord Almighty. All who see you will flee from you and say, ‘Nineveh is in ruins–who will mourn for her?’ Where can I find anyone to comfort her? ” (Nahum 3:4-5, 7)
As we think of God’s warnings about the defeat of all wickedness and the final judgment, it is easy to think He is speaking of something far away or that His warning is meant for someone else. It is easy to give lip service to God, but still have a heart far from Him. This is a day of mercy and a day of “Good News”! Instead of lip service, go for the deep revival of true repentance and holiness that brings everlasting peace and blessing!
“Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the Name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off–for all the Lord our God will call.” Acts 2:38-39
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