Nahum could be a sequel to the book of Jonah. A century after Nineveh repented in response to the preaching of Jonah, she hastily returned to idolatry, violence, and arrogance. Assyria was at the height of her power, conquering nations and expanding borders. The more powerful Babylonians were on the horizon.
Those who try to intimidate with power are mostly pretenders. We recognize them in nations, armies, organizations, and all the way to communities. We often allow them to distract us from the secure and sovereign center of the person and action of God. We are not to admire or to be intimidated by them.
Nahum, whose name means “consolation,” comforts us with the knowledge that “the Lord is good and He is a refuge in times of trouble. He cares for those who trust in Him.” (Nahum 1:7)