Daily Readings at Southeast

  Introduction to Nahum Nahum is a prophecy of judgment against the city of Nineveh, the capital of Assyria. About a century earlier, Jonah had warned Nineveh, and the people repented. But by Nahum’s time, they had returned to their violent and oppressive ways. God’s patience had run out. The Assyrian empire was known for its cruelty—brutal conquests, torture, and public executions. Nahum describes God’s judgment in vivid, poetic detail. His message is clear: Nineveh’s downfall is certain, and God is not indifferent to evil. At first glance, Nahum may seem harsh. But his words remind us that God's justice is part of His goodness. He is slow to anger, but He will not let the guilty go unpunished. The Assyrians had not only oppressed other nations—they had mocked God. Nahum’s prophecy is both a warning and a comfort: evil does not get the last word. For the people of Judah, who had suffered under Assyria’s cruelty, Nahum’s words brought hope. God had not forgotten them. He would defe...

 Scripture: Micah 5 Micah 6 Micah 7

 Scripture: Micah 2 Micah 3 Micah 4

  Introduction to Micah Micah was a prophet during a time of social injustice, corrupt leaders, and religious hypocrisy. He spoke to both the northern and southern kingdoms and delivered a message of both judgment and hope. The book opens with vivid images—mountains melting, valleys splitting—emphasizing the seriousness of God’s message. Micah condemns the leaders of Israel and Judah for using their power for personal gain, exploiting the poor, and pretending to be spiritual while living unjustly. But alongside his warnings, Micah offers incredible promises. He prophesies the birth of a ruler from Bethlehem, one who will shepherd His people in strength and peace. This prophecy points directly to Jesus, the Good Shepherd and Prince of Peace. One of the most famous verses in Micah is a clear summary of what God desires: “To act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God.” This isn't about religious performance—it’s about living with integrity, compassion, and dependence ...

 Scripture: Jonah 2 Jonah 3 Jonah 4

  Introduction to Jonah Jonah is a story about a reluctant prophet, a great fish, and a God whose mercy reaches far beyond Israel. It’s one of the most well-known books in the Bible—but beneath the familiar story is a deep challenge about obedience, grace, and the heart of God. God tells Jonah to go to Nineveh, the capital of Assyria—a brutal and feared enemy of Israel. But instead of obeying, Jonah runs in the opposite direction. He boards a ship to Tarshish, trying to escape God’s call. When a violent storm threatens the ship, Jonah is thrown overboard and swallowed by a giant fish, where he spends three days and nights before being spit out onto dry land. Jonah finally goes to Nineveh and delivers God’s message. To his surprise—and frustration—the people repent. God shows them mercy, and Jonah is angry. He wanted judgment, not forgiveness. The book ends with Jonah sitting outside the city, sulking, as God gently confronts him about his lack of compassion. Though short, Jonah is ...