Nahum 1

Scripture Reading:  Read Nahum Chapter 1. 

He Knows You By Name: 

Nahum 1:7 – “The LORD is good, a refuge in times of trouble. He cares for those who trust in him.” (NIV) 

I’ve always struggled a little with remembering people’s names.  It takes me a few times to meet an individual, and usually, I have to see their name written down before I’ll remember it.  Generally, if I call someone “buddy,” it means I have no earthly clue what their name is! 

I sit here this morning thinking about the goodness of our God, and I am in awe. Our God is a good God; He’s not only a good God but also a strong refuge.  When trouble comes, we can turn to our Lord for help; what a comfort that is for God’s people. 

What truly astounds me about this passage is the personal connection it implies.  Other translations say, “He knows those who trust Him.”  It’s not just a recognition of our face but an intimate knowledge of us.  Out of the billions of people on earth, the Lord knows you and cares for you. You are not just a face in the crowd but a cherished individual in His eyes.   

The Lord knew of the people of Judah's oppression at the hands of the wicked Assyrians. The Lord heard their cry for help, and the Lord delivered them from the terrorizing oppression of Nineveh.  Likewise, the Lord knows your difficulty, and you can call out to the Lord for reprieve.  He knows you, and you can run to Him as your refuge. 

Prayer:  Thank you, Lord, for this incredible truth that you are not a distant God.  You are a God of power, goodness, and strength, but you are also involved in our everyday lives.  Thank you, Jesus.