Devotional - Day 1

In a world that often celebrates quick reactions and instant gratification, God's patience stands in stark contrast. The book of Nahum reveals a profound truth about our Creator: He is slow to anger. This isn't weakness—it's a deliberate choice rooted in His character.

God had been patient with Nineveh for generations. A century before Nahum, the Ninevites had repented at Jonah's preaching and received mercy. But they eventually returned to their wicked ways, becoming oppressors of God's people. Even then, God didn't act hastily.

This divine patience gives us hope. How many times have we failed God, only to experience His continued mercy? His slowness to anger creates space for repentance and restoration in our lives.

Yet Nahum also reminds us that God's patience has purpose. He is slow to anger, but He will "by no means clear the guilty." His justice is as real as His mercy. The Ninevites eventually faced judgment not because God's patience ran out, but because their hearts remained hardened despite His extended grace.

Today, remember that God's patience with you isn't indifference—it's love. His slowness to anger isn't weakness but strength under perfect control. And this same patience is what He calls us to demonstrate in our relationships with others.

Today’s Bible Verse

"The Lord is slow to anger and great in power, and the Lord will by no means clear the guilty." - Nahum 1:3

Reflection Question

How has God's patience impacted your life, and how might He be calling you to extend similar patience to others who have wronged you?

Quote

The Lord is slow to anger, Praise be to God, right and great in power, and the Lord will by no means clear the guilty.

Prayer

Lord, thank You for Your incredible patience with me. Help me to see Your slowness to anger not as permission to sin, but as an invitation to repentance. Teach me to extend this same grace-filled patience to others in my life. In Jesus' name, amen.