Assyria had conquered and enslaved the northern kingdom of Israel. They were prosperous but they were also the butchers of the world. God said enough. He would deliver his people from the capitol city of Nineveh and the Assyrians would forever be destroyed. Which happened.
What can we learn?
- God has the last say about evil.
Assyria thought they could do what they wanted and they did. The nations felt helpless because they could not stand up against them. But God has the last say. He says they would be defeated and they were. Prophecy fulfilled. - God will not evil go unchecked forever. He gives exceeding grace and warnings, even to the Gentiles nations, to repent. But persistent evil will be brought to the table of judgment.
Individuals too are called to repent. Not just do evil and “love God” but repent and turn to God. He warns us over and over that a judgment is coming. Will we harden our hearts or repent and turn to him? - Israel will always be a nation. God is in covenant with Israel. Though they may be scattered, he will always regather them.
- God judges nations. He holds them accountable for how they treat people, both within their nation and to other nations. When God passes judgment on a nation, everyone suffers. His desire is for repentance. But if a nation does not repent on a national level, then in his righteousness and goodness he will have to intervene and stop the evil.