Lent- a time of realization

I looked at the calendar and realized this week marks the halfway point in our journey towards Resurrection Sunday and the triumph of the cross. Today’s passage is from a little book in the Old Testament called Nahum.  The prophet Nahum penned these words from a vision given him by God about the fate of Nineveh, the capital city of Assyria.  Nineveh was very wicked and God was warning them of their fate if they did not turn from their evil ways.  The words of this book show us the anger God has towards sin and the need to repent.   Repent is a theme for the Lenten season that we need to continue to think about.

“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. ”  Nahum 1:3

This verse holds both comfort and hope for us along with the direct message of punishment for sins.  We know that God does not tolerate sin.  Romans 3:23 “For the wages of sin is death but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.”  Our sins against others and ourselves all show our rebellion against God.  But, God is merciful!  In His mercy He is slow to anger.    2 Peter 3:9 explains how merciful God is. “The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness.  He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.”  Christ will return and God will judge the world for its sin and rebellion, but God is patiently waiting.  I take great comfort in these words as I continue to pray for lost friends and family to come to salvation.  This verse in Nahum also tells us of God’s power and might.  He will not leave us in our sin but will actively remind us of Who He is and our need to recognize Him.  He uses the people, places and things around us to reveal Himself to us.  God used the dust storms in the desert to get the attention of the Ninevites, showing them His power and might. What is He using to get your attention today?  How is He calling you to repent and look to Him?  Just as we know God is patient and powerful, we know God is faithful and will not let sin and sinners remain forever.  Pray for your unsaved friends and relatives.  Pray for forgiveness and cleansing in your own life today.

Looking to merciful God with hope,

Linda

The thunder of the waters of Niagara Falls reminds us of God’s power and might.