How Charming
Read Nahum 1:1–3:19
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11. You, Nineveh, will also stagger like a drunkard. You will hide for fear of the attacking enemy.
12. All your fortresses will fall. They will be devoured like the ripe figs that fall into the mouths of those who shake the trees.
13. Your troops willbe as weak and helpless as women. The gates of your land will be opened wide to the enemy and set on fire and burned. . . .
15. The fire will devour you; the sword will cut you down. The enemy will consume you like locusts, devouring everything they see. There will be no escape, even if you multiply like swarming locusts. . . .
19. There is no healing for your wound; your injury is fatal. All who hear of your destruction will clap their hands for joy. Where can anyone be found who has notsuffered from your continual cruelty? Nahum 3:11-13, 15, 19
Smooth talkers. Eve fell prey to one in the garden. Consumers fall prey to one when they enter a showroom and are enticed into making an unnecessary purchase. It seems that sooner or later everybody falls prey to one—a smooth talker who comes along and persuades us to do something foolish. It’s hard not to admire these tempters, because they’re so successful at what they do. They often dress, talk, and look like real winners.
Smooth talkers—or charmers—are the topic of Nahum. In his book by the same name, Nahum is prophesying against the people of Nineveh for their deceptive practices. He tells them that their wicked deeds have been seen by God and will cost them dearly. As you read, learn the lesson that doom is certain for those who oppose God.
Nothing deceives quite like charm. Politicians know this. That’s why they pour it on around election time. Unfortunately, they’re not the only ones who know how to use charm to get what they want. Con artists use it to swindle people out of their life savings, other properties, and even their virginity or sexual purity. Charm bewitches us today just as much as it did in Nahum’s day.
To escape the influence of evil charm, we need to be wise and have a healthy suspicion of people—and offers—who seem too good to be true.
Look closely at any company, salesperson, movement, or even ministry before you trust them. Make sure that people and institutions deal truthfully with you. And never forget to ask God for discernment when dealing with individuals or organizations with whom you’re unfamiliar. Seek the counsel of wise and experienced Christians. God knows people’s true motives, and you can trust his advice.
