How should Nahum 3:9 influence our trust in worldly versus divine strength? Setting the Scene Nineveh boasted of its power, yet God reminds the city of Thebes, once buttressed by powerful allies. Thebes collapsed under divine judgment. Nahum puts Nineveh—and us—on notice: alliances, armies, and resources cannot outmuscle God. Verse Focus: Nahum 3:9 “Cush and Egypt were her boundless strength; Put and Libya were her allies.” The Illusion of Worldly Strength • “Boundless strength” looks impressive, yet it can vanish overnight (Nahum 3:10). • Alliances—Cush, Egypt, Put, Libya—could not stop God’s verdict. • Scripture echoes this warning: • “Some trust in chariots and others in horses, but we trust in the name of the LORD our God.” (Psalm 20:7) • “Woe to those who go down to Egypt for help… They do not seek the LORD.” (Isaiah 31:1) • “Cursed is the man who trusts in man, who makes flesh his strength.” (Jeremiah 17:5) Why Divine Strength Endures • God’s power is not limited by geography or resources (2 Chronicles 20:6). • His victories are certain: “A horse is prepared for the day of battle, but victory is of the LORD.” (Proverbs 21:31) • He delights to show strength in our weakness: “My power is perfected in weakness.” (2 Colossians 12:9) • Trusting Him brings blessing and stability: “Blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD.” (Jeremiah 17:7) Living It Out Today • Measure security by faithfulness to God, not the size of a bank account, network, or skill set. • Evaluate decisions: Am I leaning first on human aid or on God’s promises? (Philippians 4:13) • Armor up in His might, not our own: “Be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power.” (Ephesians 6:10) • Remember Thebes—when tempted to flaunt resources, recall how quickly human props crumble. • Anchor confidence in the unshakeable King; every rival refuge will fall, but “the name of the LORD is a fortified tower” (Proverbs 18:10). |
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