Daily Devotional – Friday, September 18, 2026
The LORD is good, a stronghold in the day of trouble; and He knows those who trust in Him.
Nahum 1:7 (NKJV)
Nineveh was the capital of Assyria, the empire that had attacked Judah and caused immense suffering. Therefore, the news that Nineveh would face God’s judgement meant a lot to the Jews. Prophet Nahum also reminded them that while they faced trouble from powerful enemies, they could turn to the LORD. He was good, and He could be their refuge.
You Have Somewhere to Turn
Nahum’s message was not only about what would happen to Nineveh. He also showed what God is like. Earlier in the chapter, he described the LORD as powerful and able to respond to those who oppose Him. Verse 7 reveals another side of God’s character. The LORD is good. He is a stronghold when trouble comes, and He knows the people who trust Him. Nahum placed that reassurance alongside his warning about Nineveh.
When Nahum calls the LORD a stronghold, he gives us a simple picture of God as a safe place when trouble comes. He does not promise that people who trust Him will escape every difficult situation. He says God will be their refuge in the middle of trouble. Nahum also says that God knows those who trust Him. He knows the people who turn to Him and place their confidence in Him personally.
A Safe Place for Troubled Hearts
Sometimes trouble leaves you with very little to do. You have made the call, had the conversation, submitted the application, or done everything you know to do, yet the matter remains unsettled. Those moments can be particularly challenging because you cannot force an answer. You may keep going over the situation in your mind, wondering what will happen next. Nahum gives you somewhere to turn while you wait: the LORD is good, and He is a stronghold in trouble.
When trouble comes, where do you turn first? You may call someone you trust, and they may assist you, but remember where Nahum points you. The LORD is good, and He knows those who trust Him. Take your worries to Him before fear takes over. You may still have questions after you pray, but you can face the day knowing that God is there with you, even when you cannot see the way forward.
Prayer
Almighty God, when trouble comes, help me to remember that You are my refuge. When I am overwhelmed, calm my heart and help me trust You for answers.
