Connect Nahum 1:3 with Exodus 34:6 on God's nature and justice. Nahum 1:3 and Exodus 34:6—Side-by-Side • Nahum 1:3: “The LORD is slow to anger and great in power; the LORD will by no means leave the guilty unpunished. His path is in the whirlwind and storm, and clouds are the dust beneath His feet.” • Exodus 34:6: “Then the LORD passed in front of Moses and called out: ‘The LORD, the LORD God, compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in loving devotion and truth.’” Shared Portrait of God’s Character • Slow to anger—divine patience stretches long. • Great in power—no limit to His ability to act. • Compassionate and gracious—mercy is not an afterthought. • Abounding in loving devotion (ḥesed) and truth—His love is steadfast and His promises certain. • Justice assured—He “will by no means leave the guilty unpunished.” Slow to Anger—Patience with Purpose • God’s restraint is real, not reluctance (2 Peter 3:9). • His patience provides space for repentance (Romans 2:4). • Being “slow to anger” never cancels anger; it times it perfectly (Psalm 103:8). Justice Certain—Guilt Will Be Addressed • Nahum reminds Nineveh that previous mercy (Jonah 3) will not shield willful return to violence. • Exodus declares judgment inseparable from holiness (Exodus 34:7, immediately following v. 6). • God’s power ensures that no wrongdoing slips through unseen (Hebrews 4:13). • At the cross, justice and mercy meet (Isaiah 53:5; Romans 3:25-26). Steadfast Love in Action • His loving devotion sustains covenant people (Deuteronomy 7:9). • Compassion moves Him to rescue, not ignore, the oppressed (Psalm 146:7-9). • Truth anchors promises—He cannot lie (Titus 1:2). Living in the Light of His Character • Trust His timing; delayed judgment is mercy, not weakness. • Embrace repentance while patience lasts—tomorrow is not guaranteed (James 4:14). • Rest in His steadfast love; nothing shakes covenant faithfulness (Lamentations 3:22-23). • Reflect both mercy and justice in relationships—“speak the truth in love” (Ephesians 4:15). |
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