The Lord relented from destroying Nineveh in the 8th century B.C., after they repented at the preaching of Jonah. However, over a century later, their vile condition was set to be punished through the justice of God. There was nothing they could do.
Nineveh was so haughty regarding their own might and wealth, they considered their fortified position unassailable by anyone. The prophet Nahum focused on their pride as he began the second chapter of his book, barking out orders (as it were in sarcasm), “Man the fort! Watch the road! Strengthen your flanks! Fortify your power mightily!” Go ahead! Get in your positions! Put a scope on the enemy’s approach! Mind your weak spots! Increase your armies and armaments! Do all you can! But, it won’t stop God! Without God, your strength and power are a waste! You are doomed!
You can have the strongest defenses—walls, canals, ammunitions—but true strength, meaningful strength, enduring strength is only of God. Now, the reality is that God has given us the same orders that He gave in Nineveh, but if we have Him on our side, the results can and will be eternally effective.
Christians, man the fort! Get into position! Get into Christ! God has a spot for you (1 Cor. 12:18)! Once you’re in the kingdom, set yourself for faithful service, doing your part “in the fort” to overcome and will the war (cf. Eph. 4:14-16)!
Christians, watch the road! The enemy is walking “about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour” (1 Pet. 5:8). He will come at you from all directions (1 John 2:15-17), and is eager to overtake you in a trespass (Gal. 6:1). Keep your eyes open, be vigilant and remember that he can and will disguise himself (2 Cor. 11:13-15).
Christians, strengthen your flanks! Every Christian has a “soft spot” or a “weak spot,” which may be more susceptible to attacks than others. “Add to your faith” (2 Pet. 1:5). “Grow in the grace and knowledge” (2 Pet. 3:18). “Write [God’s Word] on the tablet of your heart” that you might “find favor and high esteem in the sight of God” (Prov. 3:3-4).
Christians, fortify your power mightily! True strength and power can be found only “in the Lord” (Eph. 6:10). “He gives power to the weak, And to those who have no might He increases strength” (Isa. 40:29). God alone must be your strength and the only one to whom you turn for aid.
Even in your weakness, with God there is strength!