What does "though they are strong and many" teach about God's power? Verse in Focus “Thus says the LORD: ‘Though they are strong and many, they will still be mowed down and pass away. Though I have afflicted you, O Judah, I will afflict you no longer.’” (Nahum 1:12) What the Phrase Reveals About God’s Power • God’s power dwarfs the greatest human or military strength. The Assyrian Empire looked invincible, yet God declares its downfall in a single sentence. • Numbers do not intimidate the Almighty. Whether “many” armies or “many” challenges, He remains unchallenged (Psalm 33:16–17). • His judgments are final and unstoppable. “Mowed down” paints a picture of effortless, swift action—like grass under a scythe (Isaiah 40:6–8). • God simultaneously protects His people while striking His enemies. He can end affliction for Judah even as He ends the oppressor (Exodus 14:13–14). Historical Snapshot • Assyria dominated the ancient Near East, conquering Israel and threatening Judah. • Nineveh’s walls were reputedly wide enough for chariots, its army vast and brutal. • From a purely human perspective, resistance was futile—yet God declared, and history records, Assyria’s sudden collapse (Nahum 3:19). Supporting Scriptures • Job 12:23: “He makes nations great and destroys them; He enlarges nations, then disperses them.” • Isaiah 40:15: “Surely the nations are like a drop in a bucket; they are considered as dust on the scales.” • Psalm 2:4–5: “The One enthroned in heaven laughs; the Lord taunts them. Then He rebukes them in His anger.” • 2 Chronicles 20:6: “In Your hand are power and might, and no one can stand against You.” Practical Takeaways • Never size up God’s ability by the opposition’s strength or crowd size. His sovereignty is absolute. • What seems unmovable in our lives is “mowed down” effortlessly when God acts. • God’s timing often includes both judgment of evil and relief for His people; trust Him when circumstances appear overwhelming. • Believers can face any “strong and many” obstacle—cultural, political, personal—confident that the Lord’s power is greater (Romans 8:31). |
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