Old Testament
Nahum 1:3
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The LORD is slow to anger but immense in power, and he will never let the guilty go unpunished. The LORD marches through the whirlwind and the storm, and the clouds are nothing but dust beneath his feet.
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The LORD is slow to anger, and great in power, and will not at all acquit the wicked: the LORD hath his way in the whirlwind and in the storm, and the clouds are the dust of his feet.
What Nahum 1:3 means
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse emphasizes two key attributes of God: His patience and His power. God is described as 'slow to anger,' indicating that He gives people time to repent and change their ways. However, His immense power means that He is also just and will not overlook wrongdoing. The imagery of God moving through the whirlwind and storm suggests His control over nature and the world, reinforcing that nothing can stand against Him. The clouds being described as dust under His feet illustrates His authority and majesty. This verse serves as a reminder that while God is patient, He is also just and will hold the guilty accountable for their actions. It reassures believers of God's sovereignty and encourages them to trust in His timing and justice, knowing that He will ultimately deal with evil.
How to apply Nahum 1:3 to your life
In our daily lives, we can reflect on God's patience by extending grace to others, while also recognizing the importance of accountability. This verse encourages us to trust in God's timing for justice and to live righteously, knowing that He sees all.
Curated for this public verse page. Nahum Summary
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At a Glance — the Book of Nahum
- Author
- Nahum the prophet
- Written
- Around 650 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Judah concerning Nineveh
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Nahum 1:3 mean?
Nahum 1:3 highlights God's attributes of patience and power. It shows that while God is slow to anger and allows time for repentance, He is also just and will not let the guilty go unpunished.
What is the meaning of 'slow to anger' in Nahum 1:3?
'Slow to anger' in Nahum 1:3 means that God is patient and gives people the opportunity to change their ways before facing consequences for their actions.
What does the imagery of the whirlwind and storm in Nahum 1:3 signify?
The imagery of the whirlwind and storm in Nahum 1:3 signifies God's control over nature and His power. It illustrates that God is sovereign and can command the forces of nature as He wishes.
How does Nahum 1:3 relate to accountability?
Nahum 1:3 emphasizes that while God is patient, He will hold the guilty accountable for their actions. This serves as a reminder that justice will ultimately be served.
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