Understand and celebrate God's unchanging goodness and care for us, even in times of trouble, and to find our joy and happiness in Him rather than our circumstances.
Good morning, church family! Isn't it wonderful to gather here today to bask in the goodness of our mighty God?
Today, we're going to delve deep into the book of Nahum, specifically Nahum 1:7, which states,
"The Lord is good, a refuge in times of trouble. He cares for those who trust in him."
This verse is such a powerful reminder of God's goodness, even in times of judgment or disobedience.
Charles Spurgeon once said, "It is not how much we have, but how much we enjoy, that makes happiness." It reminds us that our joy and happiness should not be dictated by our circumstances, but by the goodness of God that is ever-present, regardless of our situation.
Let's begin our journey today with a word of prayer.
Father, we thank you for your unchanging goodness, even in times of trial and discipline. As we delve into your word today, open our hearts and minds to fully comprehend your love for us. Help us to celebrate your goodness daily, regardless of the trials we face. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.
Alright, are you ready to dive into the goodness of God? Let's do this, folks!
The book of Nahum, from which we draw our key verse today, is a minor prophet book in the Old Testament that primarily focuses on the impending doom of Nineveh, the capital city of Assyria. Despite the book's overall tone of judgment and destruction, Nahum 1:7 stands out as a beacon of hope, reminding us of God's goodness even in times of judgment.
An intrinsic part of His nature: It is not dependent on our actions or our circumstances. It is a constant, unchanging attribute of God. Even in times of judgment, when it may seem like God is distant or uncaring, His goodness remains. It is important to remember that God's judgment is not a reflection of His lack of goodness, but rather a manifestation of His justice and righteousness. He cannot ignore sin, and His judgment is a necessary response to it. However, even in His judgment, His goodness is evident.
His mercy: Even when we deserve punishment for our sins, God often tempers His judgment with mercy. We see this in the story of Nineveh in the book of Jonah. God sent Jonah to warn the people of Nineveh of impending judgment, but when they repented, God showed them mercy and spared them. This is a clear demonstration of God's goodness even in the face of judgment.
His provision: Even in the midst of judgment, God provides for His people. We see this in the story of the Israelites in the wilderness. Despite their disobedience and grumbling, God provided manna from heaven and water from a rock. Even in their punishment, God's goodness was evident in His provision.
His patience: In 2 Peter 3:9, we read that God is not slow in keeping His promise, as some understand slowness. Instead, He is patient with us, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance. God's patience in judgment, giving people time to repent and turn to Him, is a clear demonstration of His goodness.
His faithfulness: Even when we are faithless, He remains faithful. In Lamentations 3:22-23, we read, "Because of the Lord's great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness." Even in the midst of judgment, God's faithfulness to His people shines through.
Understanding helps us to trust Him more fully: It reassures us that even when we face trials and difficulties, God is still good. His love for us is unwavering, and His mercy is unending. It reminds us that even in the darkest times, there is hope in God.
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