Nahum 1

So it is useless for you people of Nineveh to plot against God. He will destroy your plan quickly; he will not need to strike you two times. 10 The Ninevites will be like tangled thorn-bushes or dry stubble {in a fire}; they will be like the wine in their own cups. All of those things disappear quickly and completely. 11 Yes, in the city of Nineveh there are people who advise and plan evil deeds against God. \*

But this is what God says {to the people of Judah}: “Although the nation of Assyria has very many people and {its army} is very powerful, Nevertheless I will shear them {like helpless sheep} and destroy those who plan evil deeds. Although I have punished you, I will not punish you again. 13 Now I will cause the people of Assyria to no longer enslave you; it will be as though I will break off the chains on your hands and feet.” \*

And this is what God also declares about the people of Nineveh: “The people of Nineveh will not have any descendants who will continue to have their family names. And I will destroy all the wooden and metal idols that are in their temples. I will cause them to be killed and sent to their graves, because they are vile!” \* 15 You people of Judah, look to the mountains! A messenger will come from there, and he will bring good news to you. He will declare that you will now have peace. So keep your festivals, and do what you solemnly promised God that you would do. You can do this because your wicked enemies will not invade your country again, because I will destroy them completely. \*