The Destruction of a Nation

09/25/2017 PBJ Devotional

100 years before, Jonah was sent to the city of Nineveh with a message from the Lord to repent of their evil or face destruction. From the king down, all of the people and the animals fasted and prayed in sackcloth and ashes. God rewarded their humility extending to them forgiveness, grace, and mercy.

During the years that followed, the glorious truth of God’s mercy had been forgotten as an entire nation progressively slipped back into the slimy pit of self-indulgence, greed, and oppression. So grievous were their sins that God sent a second prophet, Nahum with a proclamation of judgment and certain destruction.

”Behold, I am against you, declares the LORD of hosts, and I will burn your chariots in smoke, and the sword shall devour your young lions. I will cut off your prey from the earth, and the voice of your messengers shall no longer be heard.” (Nahum 2:13 ESV)

But what of those good men and woman who have not bowed the knee to this societal norm? Thiers alone is the sure promise that they have not been forgotten. He knows them by name. God himself is their refuge and salvation!

“The LORD is good, a stronghold in the day of trouble; he knows those who take refuge in him.” (Nahum 1:7 ESV)

As I read through this small book I could not help but think of America and the extraordinary grace that has been bestowed upon our nation. I also could not get away from the painful truth of our rebellious actions and the grievous sins of our current society! Have we grown so hard-hearted that we no longer fear this Holy and righteous God? Are we approaching the point of no return only to face His fierce judgment?

Father God, I thank you for your tender mercies that You have bestowed upon our nation in generations past. I thank you that in times of trouble You continue to be our strong and mighty Fortress.

Father God, please raise up your prophetic voice once again over our nation. Convince us of Your Love and kindness. Help us to shake off our lethargy, draw us by your Holy Spirit into the heartfelt prayer of repentance. Help us to humble ourselves before You, that we would receive Your forgiveness, unmerited favor, and blessing. Help us to escape the judgment that comes upon any nation that forsakes God! Raise up intercessors that will be faithful to pray for our people. Grant that I may be in their number.