Nahum 1:7

Commentary on Nahum 1:7

7 The Lord is good,
A stronghold in the day of trouble;
And He knows those who trust in Him.

Introduction and Context

Nahum, whose name means “Comforter,” prophesied during the height of Assyria’s power, delivering a dual message: a solemn warning of judgment against Nineveh and a word of compassionate consolation to Judah. In the midst of proclamations about God’s consuming wrath (Nahum 1:2–6), verse 7 stops the march of judgment to highlight divine goodness and covenantal care for those who trust in the Lord.

Exegesis of Nahum 1:7

“The LORD is good”
Set against the backdrop of verses 2–6, which emphasise God’s jealousy, avenging justice and irresistible power, this sudden affirmation of goodness underscores his moral perfection and unchanging character. It echoes the self-description in Exodus 34:6 and the psalmist’s praise in Psalm 86:5, reminding believers that even in holy fury, God remains fundamentally good.

“A stronghold in the day of trouble”
The Hebrew word migdal evokes the imagery of a fortress or watchtower. Old Testament poetry frequently uses this metaphor (cf. Proverbs 18:10; Psalm 46:1) to portray God as an impregnable refuge. Here, Nahum invites God’s people to abandon false securities and take shelter under divine sovereignty when crises arise.

“And He knows those who trust in Him”
Beyond mere omniscience, the verb “knows” (yada) signifies intimate, covenantal relationship. God not only sees but personally cares for his elect. This line assures the faithful that the fierce judgment pronounced on Nineveh does not extend to those who place their confidence in him.

Theological Reflections

• Divine Sovereignty and Goodness
  God’s goodness flows from his sovereign decree. His election and purposes guarantee that those he calls will find safety in his protective care, even amid life’s fiercest storms.
• Covenant Faithfulness
  The promise of refuge rests on God’s unbreakable covenant. The same Lord who pronounces judgment on the wicked extends mercy by grace alone to sinners who trust in Christ, showcasing both justice and compassion.
• Perseverance of the Saints
  The assurance that God “knows” his people undergirds the doctrine of perseverance. True believers, once called and sealed by the Spirit, remain secure in his stronghold until the final fulfilment of redemption.

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Application to Modern Christian Living

• Pray for Refuge in Affliction
  When trials press in—be they health issues, relational conflict or financial strain—immediately turn to God in prayer, recalling that he is your secure fortress.
• Ground Hope in God’s Character
  Daily meditate on his attributes, especially goodness and faithfulness, through personal Bible study and corporate worship.
• Embrace Community as a Living Stronghold
  Recognise that the local church embodies God’s presence. Sharing burdens and praying together strengthens your faith and provides real-life refuge.
• Rest in the Assurance of Intimate Care
  Let the reality that God “knows” you shape your confidence, not in your own performance but in Christ’s finished work, producing peace amid life’s uncertainties.

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Teaching from Nahum 1:7

Nahum 1:7 teaches that in the face of God’s righteous anger against wickedness, believers behold a three-fold truth: God’s intrinsic goodness, his role as an impenetrable refuge for the trusting, and his personal, intimate care for those who lean on him. This verse anchors modern Christians in both awe of divine justice and comfort in unshakeable mercy.

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