Bible Commentaries
Proverbs 11

Verse 1

1 ¶ A false balance is abomination to the LORD: but a just weight is his delight. {A false...: Heb. Balances of deceit} {just...: Heb. perfect stone†a}

HOW valuable is the Book of God in its minute detail of principles for every day’s conduct! Commerce is a Providential appointment for our social intercourse and mutual helpfulness. It is grounded with men upon human faith, as with God upon Divine faith. Balances, weights, money, are its necessary materials. Impositions; double-dealings; the hard bargain struck with self-complacent shrewdness (Proverbs 20:14 ) — this is the false balance forbidden alike by the law (Leviticus 19:36 ) and the gospel. (Matthew 7:12 . Philippians 4:8 .) Men may "commend its wisdom" (Luke 16:8 ); God not only forbids, but he abominates it. (Proverbs 20:10 . Deuteronomy 25:13-16 . Amos 8:5 .) The just weight often passes unnoticed. But such a perfect stone is a perfect jewel, and a precious stone in the sight of God.†1 It is his delight (Proverbs 16:11 ; Proverbs 12:22 ) — a testimony infinitely above all human praise!

We must not put away this proverb as a mere moral maxim. It was given as a warning to a flourishing Christian Church (1 Thessalonians 4:6 ); and the sin here reprobated has been a leprous spot upon many a highly-gifted professor. (1 Corinthians 6:8 .) Is it not a solemn thought, that the eye of God marks all our common dealings of life, either as an abomination or a delight? Have we never found, when upon our knees, the frown of God upon some breach in our daily walk? (Psalms 66:18 .) Look and see, whether the "conscience has been void of offense towards man." (Acts 24:16 .) "The righteous LORD loveth righteousness; his countenance doth behold the upright." (Psalms 11:7 .) They — they only — "shall dwell in his presence." (Psalms 15:1-2 ; Psalms 24:3-5 ; Psalms 140:13 .)

Footnotes:

†a In many shops in Palestine now, the only weights in the balance are smooth stones. — Narrative of the Scottish Mission to the Jews. Saphet, p. 274. Compare Proverbs 16:11, margin.

†1 Jermin in loco.

Verse 2

Pride was the principle of the fall (Genesis 3:5 ), and therefore the native principle of fallen man. (Mark 7:22 .) When pride had stripped us of our honour, then — not till then — cometh shame.(Genesis 3:7, with Genesis 2:25 .) This is the wise discipline of our God to scourge the one by the other. The Babel-builders (Genesis 11:4 ); Miriam (Numbers 12:2, Numbers 12:10 ); Uzziah (2 Chronicles 26:16-21 ); Haman (Esther 5:11 ; Esther 7:10 ); Nebuchadnezzar (Daniel 4:29-32 ); Herod (Acts 12:22-23 ); all are instances of shame, treading upon the heals of pride. Even in common life, a man will never attempt to raise himself above his own level — but then cometh shame (Luke 14:11 ) — the most revolting recompense. And thus our God puts to shame the man, who knows not his bounds, and who refuses to stand on the low ground, on which he has placed him. "Every one that exalteth himself shall be abased." (Luke 18:14 . Isaiah 2:17 .)

Such is the folly of pride. With the lowly is wisdom. What a splendour of wisdom shone in the lowly child, "sitting at the doctors’ feet, astonishing them at his understanding and his answers!" (Luke 2:47 .) And will not this spirit be to us the path of wisdom? For the Divine Teacher "reveals to the babes, what he hides from the wise and prudent." (Luke 10:21 .) There is no greater proof of proud folly, than believing only what we understand. Faith is thus grounded on knowledge, not on testimony: as if the word of God could not be implicitly received, except as corroborated by other witnesses. Happy is that lowliness of spirit, that comes to God’s revelation, as it were without any will or mind of our own; humbly receiving what he is pleased to give; but willing — yea thankful — to be ignorant, when he forbids us to intrude! (Colossians 2:18 .)

Verses 3-7

Integrity or righteousness is a most valuable guide in all perplexities. (Matthew 6:22 .) The single desire to know the will of God, only that we may do it (Psalms 143:10 ), will always bring light upon our path. It is also a covert from many dreaded evils. "God is a buckler to them that walk uprightly. Who therefore is he that will harm you, it ye be followers of that which is good?" (1 Peter 3:13 .) Let the Christian "stand, having on the breast-plate of righteousness; and that wicked one toucheth him not." (Ephesians 6:14 . 1 John 5:18 .) Often indeed does it deliver from temporal, always from eternal, death. "Whoso walketh uprightly shall be saved. In the pathway thereof there is no death. If a man keep my sayings, he shall never see — never taste of — death." (Genesis 7:1 ; 2 Kings 20:3-6 . John 8:51 .)

The perverseness, that neglects this godly principle, is the sinner’s own snare and destruction. (Proverbs 28:18 . John 8:51 . Ezra 18:27 .) And when the day of wrath cometh — as come it will — "a great ransom will not deliver." (Deuteronomy 1:43-44 . Numbers 22:32 . Isaiah 1:28 . Ezra 9:9-10 . Hosea 14:9 .) Riches will profit nothing (Job 36:18-19 ); not even will they obtain "a drop of water to cool the tormented tongue." (Luke 16:19-24 .) In vain will "the rich men of the earth" seek a shelter from "the wrath of the Lamb." (Revelation 6:15-17 .) They and their hopes will perish together.†1 ’They were not living, but lying hopes, and dying hopes.’†2 What a contrast to that "hope, which is as an anchor of the soul, both sure and steadfast, and which entereth into that within the veil!"†3

Footnotes:

†1 Proverbs 10:28. Job 8:13-14 ; Job 11:20 ; Job 18:14-18 . Psalms 49:17-18 ; Psalms 146:4 . One of Bunyan’s graphical and accurate sketches represents Ignorance ferried over the river by one Vain Hope, ascending the hill alone, without encouragement, and ultimately bound and carried away. ’Then I saw’ — adds he with fearful solemnity — ’that there was a way to Hell, even from the gates of Heaven!’

†2 Leighton on 1 Peter 1:3 .

†3 Hebrews 6:19. Does not this verse prove the knowledge of a future state; since, as respects this life, the expectation of the righteous — alike with that of the wicked — perisheth? Compare 1 Corinthians 15:19 .

Verse 8

Thus do these two classes change places in the dispensations of God. The same providence often marks Divine faithfulness and retributive justice. The Israelites were delivered out of the trouble of the Red Sea; the Egyptians came in their stead. (Exodus 14:21-28 .) Mordecai was delivered from the gallows; Haman was hanged upon it. (Esther 5:14 ; Esther 7:10 .) The noble confessors in Babylon were saved from the fire; their executioners were "slain" by it. (Daniel 3:22-26 .) Daniel was preserved from the lions; his accusers were devoured by them. (Daniel 6:22-24 .) Peter was snatched from death; his jailers and persecutors were condemned. (Acts 12:6, Acts 12:19, Acts 12:23 .) Thus "precious in the sight of the LORD is" the life, no less than "the death, of his saints." (Psalms 116:15 .) For the deliverance of one precious soul out of trouble he will bring a nation into distress. (1 Samuel 23:25-28 .) Yea — for the ransom of his own chosen people, he gave not only "Egypt" of old, but in later times "Ethiopia and Seba — men for them, and people for their life."†1 To what source but his own free and sovereign love can we trace this special estimation? "Since thou wast precious in my sight, thou hast been honourable, and I have loved thee." (Isaiah 43:4, ut supra.) We do not always mark the same outward manifestation. But the love is unchangeably the same. And how should it at once lay us in the dust, and build our confidence upon an unshaking foundation!

Footnotes:

†1 Isaiah 43:3-4, with 2 Chronicles 14:9-11 . 2 Kings 19:9 . Compare Proverbs 21:18 . How different their estimation in the eyes of man, when an Eastern autocrat was willing to cut them off at a single blow as a worthless thing! Esther 3:8-15 . Compare 1 Corinthians 4:13 .

Verse 9

Haman under the pretence of loyalty would have destroyed a whole nation. (Esther 3:8-13 .) Ziba under the same false cover would have destroyed his neighbour. (2 Samuel 16:1-4 .) The lying prophet from mere willfulness ruined his brother.†1 Such is the hypocrite’s mouth! "a little member;" but "a world of iniquity: set on fire of hell." (James 3:5-6 .)

Then look at him in the church — "a ravening wolf in sheep’s clothing," devouring the flock (Matthew 7:15 ); "making merchandize with feigned words" (2 Peter 2:1-3 ); an apostle of Satan, so diligent is he in his Master’s work of destruction! (2 Corinthians 11:3, 2 Corinthians 11:13 .) "These false Christs" — we are warned — "deceive many; if it were possible the very elect." (Matthew 24:24 .) But they — the just — are delivered through knowledge — ’by the light and direction of the Holy Ghost, and by the lively knowledge of God’s word, which giveth unto the faithful man wisdom sufficient for his preservation.’†2 Learn the value of solid knowledge. Feeling, excitement, imagination, expose us to an unsteady profession.†3 Knowledge supplies principle and steadfastness. "Add to your faith knowledge." (2 Peter 1:5 .) Guard against plausible error, usually built upon some single truth, separated from its connection, and pressed beyond its due proportion. Do not the many delusions of our day give force to the earnest exhortation — "Take fast hold of instruction; let her not go; keep her, for she is thy life"? (Proverbs 4:13 .)

Footnotes:

†1 No reference or footnote is given here in the book, but Mr. Bridges seems to be alluding to 1 Kings 13:11-30 .

†2 Diodati. Compare Hebrews 5:14 . 1 John 2:20, 1 John 2:27 . 2 Peter 3:17-18 .

†3 Such as Ephesians 4:14 .

Verses 10-11

The world, in despite of the native enmity of the heart, bears its testimony to consistent godliness (Proverbs 16:7 . Mark 6:20 ), and rejoices in the prosperity of the righteous. Their elevation to authority is a matter of general joy. (Proverbs 29:2 . Esther 8:15 .) A godly king;†1 a premier, using his authority for the glory of God (2 Chronicles 24:16 ); a man of God of high influence in the church (2 Kings 2:12 ) — these are justly regarded as a national exaltation. Their prayers (Exodus 33:12 . Isaiah 37:14-36 . James 5:16-18 ), wisdom (Genesis 41:38-42 ), disinterestedness, and example (Job 22:30 ), are a public blessing.

The wicked — they are only a curse to the community. Often has it been overthrown, or endangered by their mouth. (Numbers 16:3, Numbers 16:41 . 2 Samuel 15:1-14 ; 2 Samuel 20:1 .) So that their perishing is a matter of present exultation. (Job 27:23 .) Such was the joy of Rome on the death of Nero, and the public rejoicings in the French Revolution at the death of Robespierre. The people of God unite in the shouting; not from any selfish feeling of revenge; much less from unfeeling hardness towards their fellow-sinners. But when a hindrance to the good cause is removed (Proverbs 28:28 . Ecclesiastes 9:18 ); when the justice of God against sin (2 Samuel 18:14-28 ), and his faithful preservation of his church (Exodus 15:21 . Judges 5:31 ) are displayed, ought not every feeling to be absorbed in a supreme interest in his glory? Ought they not to shout? (Psalms 52:6-7 ; Psalms 58:10 . Revelation 18:20 .) The "Alleluia" of heaven is an exulting testimony to the righteous judgments of the LORD our God, hastening forward his glorious kingdom. (Revelation 19:1-2 .)

Footnotes:

†1 2 Chronicles 30:25-26 . ’All things proper in every respect, so long as thou rulest well’ — was the speech of the Senate to the emperor Severus. Compare Isaiah 32:1-2 . 1 Timothy 2:1-2 .

Verse 12

Pride and uncharitableness show a man to be void of wisdom; ignorant alike of himself, his neighbour, and his God. For could he delight in magnifying "the mote in his neighbour’s eye," had he wisdom to "consider the beam that is in his own eye"? (Matthew 7:3-5 .) Could he despise his neighbour, did he really know him to be his own flesh (Isaiah 58:7 . Malachi 2:10 . Acts 17:26 ); perhaps even "a member of the body, and of the flesh, and of the bones of his Lord"? (Ephesians 5:30 .) Could he look down upon him in the plenitude of pride, did he realize the consciousness; that, if he differs, it is God — not himself, "that hath made him to differ"? (1 Corinthians 4:7 .) Surely this blindness is to be void of wisdom, and destitute of heart. ’It denotes the want of a right state of mind, judgment, and affections. Such a man is without heart to what is wise and good.’†1

A man of understanding may see much in his neighbour to excite his pity, and stir up his prayers, but nothing to despise. He may be called openly to condemn him. But his general course will be loving forbearance; holding his peace; ’keeping himself from speaking or doing anything in scorn of another;’†2 "considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted." (Galatians 6:1 .) Self-knowledge shows the man of understanding, and forms the man of love.

Footnotes:

†1 Scott in loco — Compare Proverbs 14:21 . John 7:47-49 .

†2 Diodati.

Verse 13

Another breach of love is here reproved. (Leviticus 19:16-17 .) The gospel does not shut us up in our own private interests, as if we had no sympathy with our neighbour. It is an universal brotherhood of love. Yet it rebukes the tale-bearer, who, having no business of his own, traffics with his neighbour’s name and honour, and vends his wares of scandal, as it may be, whether for gain or wantonness. (Nehemiah 6:17-19 .) It is most unsafe to be within the breath of this cruel trifler with the happiness of his fellow-creatures. (Proverbs 16:28 ; Proverbs 26:22 .) For as readily as he reveals our neighbour’s secrets to us, will he reveal ours to him.†1 All the bonds of confidence and friendship are broken in pieces. Let ears and lips be closed against him. If there be no vessel to receive his base matter, his words will fall to the ground, and die away. Children, servants, and visitors in the family, should guard most carefully against revealing secrets, that have been spoken before them in the unreserved confidence of domestic life. The tale-bearer having much time on his hands, worms out family secrets. He is always delighted to make a discovery. The most idle rumour is a treasure. A quarrel made up before he had time to reveal it, is a disappointment. This busy idleness has always been a sore in the church. (2 Thessalonians 3:10-12 . 1 Timothy 5:13 . 1 Peter 4:15 .) It is a religion always abroad, occupied impertinently with foreign interference; while at home it is "the field of the slothful, grown over with thorns." (Proverbs 24:30-31 .) Would we have our friend rest his anxieties on our bosom (Proverbs 17:17 ), let him not see the results of misplaced confidence dropping out of our mouth. It is of great moment to our peace, that those about us should be of a faithful spirit, to whom it is not necessary on every occasion to enjoin secrecy; true to our interest as to their own; who would rather refuse than betray a trust; whose bosom is a cover of concealment, except when the honour of God and the interests of society plainly forbid. (1 Samuel 3:17-18 . Jeremiah 38:24-27 . Contrast Judges 16:16-20 .) Invaluable is such a friend, but rare indeed in this deceitful world. (Proverbs 20:6 .) Yet Christian consistency includes the faithful spirit; and its habitual absence makes it most doubtful, whether the spirit and mind of Christ is not altogether wanting.

Footnotes:

†1 Proverbs 20:19. Horace has given us this same warning:

Percontatorem fugito; nam garrulus idem est;

Nec retinent patulæ commissa fideliter aures. — Epistle I. 18. L. 69, 70.

Verse 14

Even in private matters the value of wise counselors is generally admitted. The agreement of the multitude gives safety to our decision. And even their difference, by giving both sides of the question, enables us to ponder our path more safely. The nation, therefore, without counselors is like a ship in the midst of the rocks without a pilot, in imminent peril. God has given to some the gift of government — "wisdom that is profitable to direct." (Ecclesiastes 10:10 .) Where there is no counsel, the people fall. In the dark time of the Judges, the want of a king led to anarchy, and the people fell into the enemies’ hands. (Judges 2:8-23 ; Judges 21:25 .) Ten parts of the people fell when Rehoboam listened to evil counsel.†1 A fall again was there of the people, when the counsel of godly Jehoiada was removed! (2 Chronicles 24:17-21 .) The good Lord deliver us from the deserved national judgment of weak and blinded counselors! (Ecclesiastes 10:16 . Isaiah 3:1-4 ; Isaiah 19:11-14 .)

David and Solomon, though themselves specially endowed with wisdom, governed their kingdoms prosperously by wise counselors. (Psalms 119:98-100, with 2 Samuel 15:12 ; 2 Samuel 17:14, also 1 Kings 12:6 .) The larger the multitude of such counselors (contrast Isaiah 47:13 ), the greater the safety. To one such, a heathen monarch owed the safety of his kingdom from desolating famine. (Genesis 41:38-57 .)

Often has the Church been preserved by this blessing. (Acts 15:6-31 . Compare Proverbs 15:22 ; Proverbs 24:6 .) Shall we not now plead for her safety in this day of her distress, that her people may not fall by the want of counsel (Ezekiel 34:4-6 . Matthew 15:14 ); that her ordained counselors may be largely filled with the "spirit of power, and of love, and of a sound mind" (2 Timothy 1:7 ), to establish her people more firmly in the pure faith of the gospel? (Acts 16:4-5 .)

Footnotes:

†1 1 Kings 12:16-19 . ’Fall like leaves.’ — LXX.

Verse 15

This repeated warning against suretyship (Proverbs 6:1-5 ) is intended to inculcate considerateness; not to excuse selfishness, or to dry up the sources of helpful sympathy. It must not be for a stranger (Proverbs 27:13 ), whose character and responsibilities are unknown to us. For such incautious kindness, too often done to the injury of our family, we shall smart, if not be sore broken. To hate such engagements is therefore our prudent security.

But one exception we can never forget. The blessed Jesus, from his free grace — unsought, unasked (John 10:15, John 10:17-18 . Philippians 2:6-8 ) — became surety — not for a friend (in which case we should have had no interest), but for a stranger. He became One with us in nature, that he might be One with us in law. He took our place under the curse of the broken law. (Galatians 3:13 .) He put his soul to the fullest extent in our soul’s place; and then made our nature pay the debt, which all the angels of heaven could never have discharged. Oh! this was a smart indeed. Yea — sore broken was he under the stroke of his Father’s hand.†1 The Upholder of the universe was prostrate in the dust (Mark 14:35, with Hebrews 1:3 ); his own creature strengthening his sinking frame. (Luke 22:43 .) Had he hated suretyship, he would have been sure; (for what could have disturbed his self-existent happiness?) but we should have perished. Glory to his name! Though from all eternity he knew the bitterness of the smart, instead of hating, he "rejoiced and delighted" in his work. (Proverbs 8:31 . Hebrews 10:7 . Psalms 40:6-8 .) His was no rash engagement. For it was the arrangement of the everlasting covenant. (Isaiah 53:10-12 . 1 Peter 1:20 .) Every way it was lawful. There was an infinite treasure to discharge the liabilities. The claims of justice were fully satisfied. (Isaiah 1:27 ; Isaiah 42:21 . Romans 3:26 .) Sin was as thoroughly punished, as it was thoroughly pardoned. There was no injury, but rather direct benefit to the family of God. (Ephesians 1:10 . Colossians 1:20 .) What then remains for us, but to fall down before this grace, and to spend our days, as we shall spend our eternity, in adoring this wondrous manifestation of Divine glory! (Revelation 1:5-6 ; Revelation 5:12 .)

Footnotes:

†1 Isaiah 53:5, Isaiah 53:10 — bruised - sore broken.

Verse 16

Everywhere the excellency of godliness meets our eyes. What loveliness, dignity, and influence does it impart to the female character! (Proverbs 31:10 .) A gracious woman is known, not by her outward beauty (Proverbs 31:30 ), but by her "inner becoming ornaments" (1 Timothy 2:9-10 . 1 Peter 3:3-4 ); which remain in full lustre, when external accomplishments have faded away. (Proverbs 31:25 .) And though "the weaker vessel," she retaineth honour, as firmly as strong men retain riches. She preserves her character unblemished. (Ruth 3:11 .) She wins her children (Proverbs 31:28 ) — perhaps her ungodly husband (Proverbs 31:12, Proverbs 31:28 . 1 Peter 3:1-2 ) — into the ways of holiness. Thus Deborah retained honour as "a mother in Israel," the Counsellor and the stay of a sinking people. (Judges 4:4 ; Judges 5:7 .) Esther retained her influence over her heathen husband for the good of her nation. (Esther 9:12-13, Esther 9:25 .) And still the gracious woman retaineth honour long after she has mingled with the dust. Sarah the obedient wife (1 Peter 3:5-6 ); Hannah the consecrating mother (1 Samuel 1:28 ); Lois, Eunice, and "the elect lady" (2 Timothy 1:5 ; 2 Timothy 3:15 . 2 John 1-4), in the family sphere; Phoebe and her companions in the annals of the Church (Romans 16:2-6 . Philippians 4:3 ); the rich contributor to the temple (Mark 12:42-44 ); the self-denying lover of her Lord (Mark 14:3-9 ); Mary in contemplative retirement (Luke 10:39 ); Dorcas in active usefulness (Acts 9:36 ): — Are not these "good names" still had in honourable remembrance? (Psalms 112:6 .)

Verse 17

Mercifulness is not natural benevolence, without God or godliness. It is the "fruit of the Spirit" (Galatians 5:22 ); the image of our Father (Luke 6:36 ); the constraint of the love of Christ (2 Corinthians 8:9 ); the adorning of "the elect of God." (Colossians 3:13 .) It is not pity in words and looks. It is when our neighbor’s trouble descends into the depths of our hearts, and draws out thence bowels of kindness and practical sympathy. (Luke 10:33 .) The merciful man will ever find a merciful God. (Psalms 41:1 . Matthew 5:7 .) The widow of Sarepta and the woman of Shunam, each for their kindness to the LORD’s prophets, "received a prophet’s reward." (2 Kings 4:16 ; 2 Kings 8:1-6 .) The alms of Cornelius brought good to his own soul. (Acts 10:2-4 .) In watering others with our mercy, our own "souls will become a watered garden." (Isaiah 32:8 . Psalms 112:4 .) Even now "God is not unrighteous to forget our work and labour of love." (Hebrews 6:10 . Matthew 10:42 .) At the great day he will honour it before the assembled universe. (Matthew 25:34 .)

But not less certainly will cruelty bring its own mischief. (James 2:13 . Matthew 18:34-35 .) Unsubdued passion is carrying about us the very element of hell, wanting nothing but immortality to perfect the misery. Cain found his brother’s murder an intolerable trouble to his flesh. (Genesis 4:13-14 .) Joseph’s brethren severally smarted from their unfeeling wantonness. (Genesis 42:21 .) Adoni-bezek was constrained to acknowledge the justice of his chastisement. (Judges 1:6-7 .) The doom of Ahab and Jezebel was the curse of their own cruelty. (1 Kings 22:38 . 2 Kings 9:36-37 .) The treasures of selfishness will eat as doth a canker in our own flesh. (James 5:1-3 .) O my God, save me from the tyranny of my own lust, and may thy perfect image of mercy be my standard and my pattern!

Verses 18-19

Both the Masters that claim the heart put forth their promise of reward. Did Satan fulfill all his promises, truly his servants would be abundantly enriched. (Genesis 3:4-5 . Matthew 4:8-9 .) But the wicked worketh a deceitful work, ending in disappointment. (Hebrews 3:13 . Romans 6:21 .) Pharaoh’s exterminating project against Israel deceived him in its result, issuing in their increase, and the ruin of himself and his people. (Acts 7:19 . Exodus 1:20 .) Abimelech doubtless expected peace as the result of his murderous work. (Judges 9:22-51 .) But he pursued evil to his own death. Ahab anticipated rest from the riddance of Naboth. But the words of his troublesome reprover were to him as the "piercings of a sword." (1 Kings 21:19 .) How little did Gehazi contemplate the plague of the leprosy, as the issue of his well-contrived plan! (2 Kings 5:27 .) Were the temptation presented in a naked form — ’For this pleasure sell thy soul — thy God — thy heaven’ — who would not fly with horror from the most enticing bait? But the tempter worketh a deceitful work, painting the present pleasure, and hiding the certain reality of ruin. (Proverbs 1:15-18 .) Oh! it is affecting to see his poor victim eagerly pursuing evil (Proverbs 4:16-17 ) — yet to his own death. Not only his open acts, but his thoughts, motions, pursuits, ends — all tend to death. (Proverbs 5:1-5 ; Proverbs 9:18 .) God has no place in his heart. And what else can be the end of a life without God? Thus the religious professor deceives others, perhaps himself. But his deceitful work will be the delusion of a moment, an eternity of confusion.

The sure reward of righteousness stands out in bright contrast. The "seed is precious;" and "the sheaves shall doubtless" follow. (Psalms 126:6 .) No sinner since the fall of man has ever known the full reward of righteousness even in this life. It may be given as an afflictive dispensation — grace to support under trouble, and to triumph in the issue of it. It will probably be given as the harvest to the sower — after trying and anxious waiting. (James 5:7-8 .) But whenever vouchsafed, or however delayed, it is a sure reward. Righteousness is the seed. Happiness is the harvest. The reward indeed is not from cause, but by consequence; not of debt, but of grace; depending upon a free promise; mercifully, yet surely, linked with Christian perseverance. (Ecclesiastes 11:6 . Hosea 10:12 . 1 Corinthians 15:58 . Galatians 6:7-8 .) It must however be true righteousness — not according to man’s profession, but according to the Divine Standard. A routine of duties may skirt the borders of religion, at the utmost distance from the Spirit of God, and equally remote from the vital principle of the heart. But righteousness not only "delivereth from death" (Proverbs 11:4 ) (a special mercy even with the loss of all) (Genesis 19:16 . Jeremiah 45:5 ); but it tendeth to life (Proverbs 10:16 . Isaiah 3:10 . Romans 2:7 . Galatians 6:8 ); full of living enjoyment, of infinite, eternal pleasure. What importance then attaches to every godly principle! All have reference to eternity. If righteousness be our main end, God will make it our best friend; nor will he, as the world has done, reward us with ciphers instead of gold. Who will not love and serve thee when "in keeping thy commandments there is a sure reward"? (Psalms 19:11 ; Psalms 37:3-6 . Isaiah 32:17 .) Irresistible will be the conviction of the wicked at the last. — ’Had I but sown righteousness in the service of God, it would have been infinitely happy for me to eternity!’ But inconceivably joyous will be the great consummation to the righteous — "Behold, I come quickly, and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be." (Revelation 22:12 .)

Verses 20-21

The froward and the upright are often contrasted, as God looks at them. (Proverbs 11:3 . Proverbs 3:32 . Psalms 11:5-7 .) Frowardness is abomination to the LORD. (Proverbs 8:13 .) All the contests between God and man are — whose will shall stand? (Exodus 5:2 ; Exodus 9:17 . Jeremiah 44:16, Jeremiah 44:28 .) Most thankful should we be for the school of discipline, that makes us feel the privilege of "subjection to the obedience of Christ." (Psalms 119:67, Psalms 119:71 .) Frowardness in the heart is specially hateful (Proverbs 16:5 ); most of all under the garb of external religion. (Isaiah 65:2-5 . Luke 16:15 .) Sinners encourage one another in sin (Proverbs 1:11-14 . Isaiah 41:7 ) — hand joining in hand. But all such "confederacies shall be broken in pieces." (Isaiah 8:9 . Genesis 11:8 . Numbers 16:1-33 . Joshua 9:1-2 .) For as "it is the same with him to save by many or by few" (1 Samuel 14:6 ); so when he lifts his arm of vengeance, it is the same, "whether it be against a nation or a man only." (Job 34:29 .) The flood; the judgment on Egypt; the chastenings of rebellious Israel in the wilderness; the destruction of Sennacherib’s army — plainly prove, that hand joining in hand is a vain resistance to the hand of God. (Proverbs 16:5 .)

The upright are those, whom God makes upright. They are his own workmanship. The upright in the way are contrasted with the froward in heart: because as the heart is, so is the way. Yet he is not said to delight in their way (though this is an undoubted truth.) They themselves are his delight. (Proverbs 12:22 . Psalms 84:11 .) He singles them out from the ungodly world. (Genesis 7:1 . Numbers 14:24 .) Nay, he even points to one of them as a challenge to Satan to do his worst. (Job 1:8 .) Such is the condescension of his sovereign love — accepting his own word; stamping with open honour the graces of his people, sullied though they be with such base defilement! "He knoweth their days" — the first day of going to their Bibles, the first day of prayer; all their after "cloudy and dark days." Nor does he put them off with a "portion in this life." Their inheritance shall be for ever. (Psalms 37:18 .) It is but a moment, and they that love him shall be with him for ever.

Nor is their blessing confined to themselves. The seed of the righteous shall be delivered. (Proverbs 20:7 . Psalms 37:26 . 1 Kings 15:4 .) ’The best way for any man to do his children good, is to be godly himself.’†1 They have then a place in their father’s covenant. (Genesis 17:7 . Acts 2:39 .) And is not this an encouragement — not indeed to indolence and presumption — but to parental faith, in leaving our children in this naughty world unprotected and alone? (Psalms 103:17 .) "The children of thy servants shall continue, and their seed shall be established before thee." (Psalms 102:28 .)

Footnotes:

†1 Exposition of Proverbs, by John Dodd and Robert Cleaver, 4to. 1614.

Verse 22

22 ¶ As a jewel of gold in a swine’s snout, so is a fair woman which is without (departeth from, margin) (Proverbs 7:10 ; Proverbs 9:13 ) discretion.

A most distasteful, and yet an apt comparison! Let us see things as the Bible shows them to us. If a fair, light-minded young woman should see her own face in this mirror, she might well start aside with horror. Beauty indeed is to be honoured, as the gift of God.†1 Yet in itself it is a fading vanity (Proverbs 31:30 ); and, without discretion, it is as misplaced, as mis-becoming, as a jewel of gold in a swine’s snout.†2 Would the ornament beautify the filthy animal? Rather would not the unnatural combination make it more than ever an object of disgust? All the charms of beauty are lost upon a foolish woman. Instead of "retaining honour" (Proverbs 11:16 ), she only brings upon herself disgrace. For just as the jewel is soon employed and besmeared in raking the mire; so too often does the beauty of the indiscreet woman become subservient to the vilest passions. (2 Samuel 11:2 .) No ornament can give comeliness to a fool (Proverbs 26:8 ); but "wisdom maketh the face to shine." (Ecclesiastes 8:1 .)

’Lightness and fantastic garb in apparel is the very bush or sign hanging out, that tells a vain mind lodges within. The soul fallen from God hath lost its true worth and beauty; and therefore it basely descends to these mean things, to serve and dress the body, and take share with it of its unworthy borrowed ornaments, while it hath lost and forgotten God, and seeks not after him, knows not that he alone is the beauty and ornament of the soul, and his Spirit, and the grace of it, his rich attire.’†3

Learn then to value far beyond beauty of face, the inner "ornaments" of grace, "which are in the sight of God of great price." (1 Peter 3:4-5 .) Many a lovely form enshrines a revolting mind. All external, even all intellectual, accomplishments without discretion issue in barrenness. So entirely do we depend upon God’s grace, for a fruitful improvement of his own gifts!

Footnotes:

†1 See Moses, Acts 7:20 . Joseph, Genesis 39:6 . David, 1 Samuel 16:12 . Esther 2:7 . Job’s daughters, 42:15.

†2 Isaiah 3:21. See Bishop Lowth’s interesting note.

†3 Leighton on 1 Peter 3:3-4 .

Verse 23

’Desire is the wing of the soul, whereby it moveth, and is carried to the thing which it loveth, as the eagle to the carcass, in the Scripture Proverbs (Job 39:30 . Matthew 24:28 ), to feed itself upon it, and to be satisfied with it.’†1 The desire of the righteous must be good, because it is God’s own work. (Psalms 10:17 . Romans 8:26-27 .) It must be only good, because it centers in himself. (Psalms 73:25 . Isaiah 26:8-9 .) God in Christ is his portion: and what earthly portion can compare with it? (Psalms 4:6-7 ) — his object; and what object is worth living for — worth half a serious thought — besides? (Romans 14:8-9 . 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 . Philippians 1:21 .) Only let me subordinate my desires to his will (1 John 5:14 ); and I shall be equally happy, whether they be granted or withheld. (1 Kings 8:17-18 .) As a physician, "he knoweth my frame" (Psalms 103:14 ); what is, what is not, expedient for me. "As a Father, he pitieth" my weakness. (Psalms 103:13 .) As a God, he fully supplies my real need. (Philippians 4:19 .) The desire, therefore, inwrought by him, fixed on him, submitted to his will, must be good. But might not an angel weep to see the corrupt mixture†2 of worldliness (Mark 10:35-37 ), selfishness (2 Samuel 23:15 . Jonah 4:8-9 ), pride? (1 Chronicles 21:1-2 .) Yet is this against our better will. (Romans 7:15 .) The main strength of the desire is to God; even though the tossing tempest of sin and Satan may combine to drive it out of its course. (Romans 7:22 .) In despite of this mighty assault — "LORD, all my desire is before thee; thou knowest all things; thou knowest that I love thee." (Psalms 38:9 . John 21:17 .) ’Thou didst put into my mind good desires; and thou wilt bring the same to good effect!’†3

But the expectation of the wicked is discontent and opposition to God. Often is it indulged, but with the fearful accompaniment of wrath. (Numbers 11:18 . Psalms 78:29-31 ; Psalms 106:15 .) And how shortly will the deluding dream end in inexpressible, eternal wrath! (Proverbs 11:7 . Luke 16:23 . Romans 2:8-9 . Hebrews 10:27 .) Oh! let me daily test my desires by the true standard, and discipline them, that they may be fixed upon the true object; so that, "delighting myself in the LORD," I may find them "granted" "exceedingly abundantly above" my largest expectations. (Proverbs 10:24 . Psalms 37:4 . Ephesians 3:20 .)

Footnotes:

†1 Bishop Reynolds’ Treatise on the Passions. — Works, p. 666.

†2 Compare Article ix.

†3 Collect for Easter Day.

Verses 24-25

24 ¶ There is that scattereth, and yet increaseth; and there is that withholdeth more than is meet, but it tendeth to poverty.†a

God has put a mark of distinguishing favor upon the exercises of that mercy, which is his own attribute. He scatters his blessings richly around (Psalms 33:5 ; Psalms 36:5-7 ); and those that partake of his spirit do the same. Men may scatter in improvidence and sin, and it tendeth to poverty. (Proverbs 21:17 .) But there is that scattereth, and yet increaseth. The husbandman, scattering his seed "plentifully" over his field, expects a proportionate increase. And shall not the man of God, "dispersing abroad" the seed of godliness (Psalms 112:9 ); consecrating his substance and influence to the Lord; "as he has opportunity, doing good unto all men" (Galatians 6:10 ) — shall not he receive a plentiful increase? (2 Corinthians 9:6, 2 Corinthians 9:11 .) The men of the world hazard all in uncertain, and often, ruinous, speculations. But in this scattering there is no uncertainty, no speculation. Bounty is the way to plenty. Have faith in God; and laying out for him will be laying up for ourselves. (Proverbs 3:9-10 ; Proverbs 19:17 .) This will be abundantly manifest, either in a visible enlargement of earthly blessings,†1 or in a satisfying enjoyment of a more limited portion. (Deuteronomy 15:10 .) The reward of grace will be given in the gracious acceptance of our God (Hebrews 13:16 ), and in a blissful reception into "everlasting habitations." (Luke 16:9 . 1 Timothy 6:18-19 .)

But is the covetous worldling happier — nay — is he richer — in withholding more than is meet? (Haggai 1:4-10 .) ’Seldom does he prosper much even in the world. For God metes to men in their own measure; and bad crops, bad debts, expensive sickness, and a variety of similar deductions, soon amount to far more than liberal alms would have done.’†2

Still more clearly does the Lord mark his blessing and his blast in the spiritual dispensation. The liberal soul is made fat in the healthful vigour of practical godliness (Proverbs 11:17 . Isaiah 32:8 . M.R. (this verse plus the Marginal Reading: "But the liberal deviseth liberal things; and by liberal things shall he stand." {stand: or, be established}); and while he is the soul of blessing to others, he is watered himself with the descending showers.†3 The Minister is refreshed by his own message of salvation to his people. The Sunday School Teacher learns many valuable lessons in the work of instruction. The soul of the District Visitor or the Christian friend glows in carrying the precious name of Jesus to a fellow-sinner. Every holy temper, every spiritual gift, every active grace is increased by exercise; while its efficiency withers by neglect. (Matthew 25:29 .)

Footnotes:

†a ’There are those, who, sowing their own, make it more: and those who gather, and are impoverished’ — LXX.

†1 Luke 6:38, into thy bosom — the sensible experience of the blessing.

†2 Scott in loco.

†3 Isaiah 58:10-11. ’How often, when my heart has been cold and dead, have I been quickened by the loving-kindness of the Lord, upon doing something kind and loving for a fellow-creature, and more especially for a fellow-Christian!’ — Venn’s Life, pp. 501, 502.

Verse 26

This is a piece of sacred ’political economy.’ It reminds us, that we are the stewards of the gifts of God. (2 Corinthians 9:11 .) To use them therefore for our own interest, without a due regard to our neighbour, is unfaithfulness to our trust. (Matthew 25:26-27 .) A flagrant sin, therefore, is it to withhold the very "staff of life" (Isaiah 3:1 ); holding back the hand of God stretched out in bounty over our land. This may indeed be a prudential restraint in the time of scarcity. (Genesis 41:46-49 .) Private interest may also claim a measure of consideration. But a grinding spirit; a spirit of selfish monopoly; raising the price for gain, with manifest suffering to the poor — will bring a piercing curse.†1 And here the curse of the people may be the curse of God. For if the cry of oppressed individuals (Exodus 22:22-24 . James 5:4 ) — much more that of an oppressed people — will "enter into the ears of the LORD of Sabaoth." (Amos 8:4-8 .) His withering blast upon withholden corn has often scourged this merciless covetousness.

The point of the antithesis apparently fails, only to give stronger security to the blessing. The curse comes directly from the people; the blessing from above. To him that subordinates his own interest to the public good — blessings shall be upon his head (Proverbs 10:6 ), descending immediately from the fountain of all grace.

Would that the cry for the "bread of life" were as earnest and universal as for the bread that perisheth! But if he be justly cursed that withholds the one; much more he, that unfaithfully and cruelly withholds the other. And if blessings be upon the head of him, that selleth the corn of this life; what is his privilege, who sells not indeed the bread of life, but freely dispenses it to his fellow-sinners! "The blessing of him that was ready to perish shall come upon him." (Job 29:13 .) The supply is abundant. Let the invitation be welcomed. (Isaiah 55:1 .)

Footnotes:

†1 The original implies the piercing of a sword, or dagger; as if the selfish spoiler was, as it were, pierced through and stabbed to death by the curses of the people. — Cartwright in loco. The system of speculating in corn, in cruel disregard of the poor, was rebuked by a popular preacher in the latter days of Elizabeth, in the true spirit of Latimer — ’The poor man must needs sell presently to maintain his family, to pay his rents. And that which he sells the rich cormorant buys that hath money enough lying by him, to hoard it up, that he may sell it dearer after. These buyers commonly dwell in market-towns, and wait to get into their hands all the corn (if it were possible) in the country. Nay — they will not only wait at home, but they will travel abroad into the country to those men, whom they know have great plenty of cord to sell, and will bargain aforehand with them for as much as they can spare, and so will prevent the market. And when they have it in their garners, they make the price at their pleasure. Surely this is a wolf of the soul. Some others will sell at home to their poor neighbours; but they will make them pay for their ease. They shall pay, above the market something; or else they will let them have none. They know the poor man must need have it. He cannot buy it in the market, because he cannot then convey it home; and knowing this his necessity, they will make him pay above all reason. And that also which makes their sin more heinous; if they send any corn to market, they will dress it very clean, and it shall be of their best corn. But if they sell at home, they which buy shall be constrained to take their worst or meanest, and not so well dressed.’ A godly and fruitful sermon, preached at Grantham A.D. 1592, by Francis Trigge.

Verse 27

There is no negative existence. Man is born for action, "as the sparks fly upward," or the stone tends downward. All of us are living with a stupendous measure of vital activity for good or for mischief. Man was never intended — least of all the Christian — to be idle. Our Divine Master "went about doing good;" always in motion; active in beneficence. And he is a counterfeit, who does not live after this pattern. Usefulness is everything. We must not rest in life received. We should feel ashamed of our depravity, that we could ever spend a day without the great object — seeking good. Nor must we wait to have it brought to us. We must seek it diligently, rise up early, and spring with joy to the work. Let us awake to the conscious responsibility of having the means of blessing our fellow-sinners in our own hands. Every talent finds its suitable sphere, and may be "put out to usury" with large returns. There is the practical exercise of "pure and undefiled religion" (James 1:27 . Matthew 25:35-36 ); the teaching of the ignorant; the instruction of the young — the rising hope of our Church — a work of deepening interest and anxiety. Let each of us try what we can do; and, whether it be little or much, do it prayerfully, faithfully, heartily; not damped by trifling hindrances (Ecclesiastes 11:4 ); nor making the incapacity of doing much an excuse for doing nothing. In living for others, we live for our true happiness. In seeking diligently their good, we procure favor; often from man (Proverbs 16:7 ); always from God. (Proverbs 12:2 . Nehemiah 5:19 .) He honours a little strength (Revelation 3:8 ), the single talent (2 Corinthians 8:12 ), laid out for him. And ’filling up every hour with some profitable labour, either of heart, head, or hands’ (as Brainerd justly observed) ’is an excellent means of spiritual peace and boldness before God.’†1

The ceaseless energy of Satan’s servants in seeking mischief (Psalms 36:4 ) puts to shame our indifference! Yet their own mischief often comes to them. (Esther 7:10 . Psalms 57:6 .) Satan himself found the mischief that he brought upon man come unto him. (Genesis 3:1-6, Genesis 3:14-15 .) His servants often become the victims of their own delusions (2 Thessalonians 2:10-11 ), with the fearful aggravation of having dragged multitudes with them into the pit of ruin. What then will be the fruit of my diligence? Will it be a blessing or a curse to my fellow-sinners? O my God! may it be from thee, and for thee!

Footnotes:

†1 Life of Brainerd — Edwards’ Works, 8vo. Vol. iii. 148. ’Religious people are heavy, and moping, and cast down, principally because they are idle and selfish — Living and working for God and to save souls, is the only way to knowing more and more of his truth and his salvation.’ — Venn’s Life, pp. 321, 354.

Verse 28

Here is the cause and misery of the fall. Man seeks his rest in God’s blessings, in opposition to himself. (Jeremiah 9:23-24 .) Riches are one of his grounds of trust. (Proverbs 10:15 . Luke 12:19 .) He depends on them, as the saint upon his God. (Proverbs 18:10-11 .) And is not this the "denial of the God that is above"? (Job 31:24-25, Job 31:28 .) A revolting truth indeed! such as only the heart crucified to the world by the cross of Christ can receive. Not that the possession of riches is a sin,†1 but the trusting in them. (Mark 10:24 .) Nor may it be always wrong to improve an opportunity of increasing them. But no one that cares for his own soul, and believes the testimony of God (Mark 10:25-27 . 1 Timothy 6:9-10 ), will seek the opportunity; or even avail himself of it without a plain call, and clear advantage for the glory of God. (1 Timothy 6:18-19 .) Let God be our satisfying portion. Let him be supremely loved and honoured, and he will determine for us, whether the worldly advantage be a Providence or a temptation.

Disappointment will be the certain end of this trust. (Psalms 49:6-12 . Ecclesiastes 5:10-11 .) When we need a staff, we shall find a piercing spear. (1 Timothy 6:10 .) Or we shall fall, like the withered leaf or blossom before the blast. (Deuteronomy 8:17-19 .) And how many a lovely blossom has thus fallen! (Mark 10:21-22 .) Thus does "the rich man fade away in his ways!" (James 1:10-11 .)

But the righteous is the branch; not like the leaf or blossom, easily shaken and withered;†2 but abiding in the true vine: full of life and fruit. (John 15:5 .) There may be, as in nature’s winter, times of apparent barrenness. But the spring returns, and with it the branch flourishes; never ceasing from yielding fruit; yea — "filled with the fruit of righteousness" (Jeremiah 17:8 ): the branch of "the LORD’s planting; the work of his hands, that he may be glorified;" to be transplanted in his own best time to the other side of the river, where "the leaf shall not fade, neither shall the fruit thereof be consumed." (Isaiah 60:21 . Ezekiel 47:12 .) Shall not this prospect fill us with lively joy and praise?

Footnotes:

†1 See the gift of God to Abraham, Genesis 24:35 ; to David 1 Chronicles 29:12 ; to Solomon 2 Chronicles 1:11-12 ; to Job 42:11-12.

†2 See the same contrast, Psalms 52:7-8 .

Verse 29

A house at unity with itself, flourishes under the special favor of God. (Psalms 133:1-3 .) But a house troubled with division, "cometh to desolation." (Matthew 12:25 .) Often also the irreligion or ungoverned passion of the head blights the comfort of the family. (1 Samuel 25:17 .) Indeed he cannot neglect his own soul without injury to his house. He deprives them of the blessing of holy prayers and godly example; while he troubles them with the positive mischief of his ungodliness, and himself inherits the wind in utter disappointment. (Hosea 8:7 .) Thus did the rebellion of Korah (Numbers 16:32-33 ); the sin of Achan (Joshua 7:24-25 ); the neglect of Eli (1 Samuel 2:32-33 ); the wickedness of Jeroboam and Ahab (1 Kings 14:9-11 ; 1 Kings 21:20-22 ); the perverseness of the re-builder of Jericho (1 Kings 16:34 ) trouble their house to its ruin. Prayerless, careless Parents! ponder the responsibility of bringing a curse, instead of a blessing, upon your families. What! if your "root should be as rottenness, and your blossom go up as dust"? (Isaiah 5:24 .) What if a man, instead of building up his house, should be ’so foolish as to mispend himself, and come to be a servant at the last to him that is wise to get and keep his own?’†1 Such retributions have been known (Luke 15:13-15 ) for the abuse of the gifts of God and the neglect of Christian responsibility.

Footnotes:

†1 Bishop Hall. Compare Proverbs 17:2 .

Verse 30

Here is the fruit of the flourishing branch. (Proverbs 11:28 .) The whole course of the righteous — his influence, his prayers, his instruction, his example — is a tree of life. What the tree of life was in paradise; what it will be in heaven, that he is in this wilderness, fruitful (Revelation 22:2, with Proverbs 10:11, Proverbs 10:31-32 ), nourishing (Revelation 2:7, with Proverbs 10:21 ), healing. (Proverbs 12:18 ; Proverbs 15:4 .) ’And surely he, who by these means winneth souls to righteousness and salvation, is wise indeed.’†1 He only, who purchased them by his blood, can win them to himself (and who that knows the work, but will give him all the praise!); yet has he set apart men for the work of ’drawing souls to God, and to the love of him; sweetly gaining, and making a holy conquest of them to God.’†2 This was the wisdom of our Divine Master. He "taught the people as they were able to hear it" (Mark 4:33 ); accommodating himself to their convenience (Mark 6:31-34 ), and their prejudices (Matthew 11:16-19 ), if that he might win their souls. And truly were these opportunities "his meat and drink." For when "wearied with his journey, he sat down on the well," thirsting for water; far more intensely did he thirst for the soul of the poor sinner before him; and, having won her to himself, he forgot his own want in the joy of her salvation. (John 4:6, John 4:32-34 .) In close walking after this pattern of wisdom, did the great Apostle "become all things to all men, that he might by all means gain some." (1 Corinthians 9:20-22 ; 1 Corinthians 10:33 .) God grant that no Minister of Christ may spend a day, without labouring to win at least one soul for heaven!

But — blessed be God! — this fruit — this wisdom — is not confined to the Sacred calling. Do we love our Lord? Arise; let us follow in this happy work, and he will honour us. The righteous wife wins her husband’s soul by the wisdom of meekness and sobriety. (1 Peter 3:1-2 .) The godly neighbour wins his fellow-sinner by the patient energy of faith and love. (James 5:19-20 .) "No man" in the true Church of God "liveth unto himself." (Romans 14:7 .) The Christian who neglects his brother’s salvation, fearfully hazards his own. He is gone back to his native selfishness, if he does not exhibit that "love and kindness of God, which hath appeared unto men." We should be diamonds in the luster of grace, loadstones for our attractive power in winning souls. How poor is the mitre or the crown; how debasing the wisdom of the philosopher, the scholar, or the statesman, compared with this wisdom! For wise indeed we must be to win souls; so hard are they to be won! If only one soul be taken, the honour passes thought. ’A soul is a kingdom. As many as we can bring back to God are so many kingdoms reconquered.’†3 No ambition so great, no results so glorious. "They that be wise shall shine as the brightness of the firmament; and they that turn many to righteousness as the stars for ever and ever." (Daniel 12:3 .) Every soul won by this wisdom, will be a fresh jewel in the Savior’s crown; a polished stone in that temple, in which he will be honoured throughout eternity.

Footnotes:

†1 Bishop Horne’s Sermon on the Tree of Life.

†2 Diodati.

†3 Quesnel. Luke 15:6 .

Verse 31

(Proverbs 11:31 quoted in the NT: 1 Peter 4:18 )

The inspired application of this proverb infallibly expounds the mind of God.†1 It is introduced to us with a special call to attention — Behold! Let the righteous expect from their relation to God — not immunity, but strict recompense. (Amos 3:2 . 1 Peter 4:17 .) They are under the discipline, though not under the curse, of the rod. Such is our too high estimation of the world, conformity to its ways and spirit, and forgetfulness of our inheritance and home; that but for the rod, we should soon backslide to our stubborn wantonness. The righteous therefore are recompensed in the earth.†2 Every perfection of God is glorified in this dispensation. As a wise Father, he will not indulge them in sin. As a holy God, he must show in them his abhorrence of it. As a faithful God, he will make the chastisements of his rod the means of their restoration. (Psalms 89:30-32 .) But — blessed be God — all the penal curse is subtracted. We are recompensed in the earth; not, as we deserve to be, in hell. Nay — "we are chastened of the Lord, that we might not be condemned with the world" (1 Corinthians 11:32 ); punished here, that we might be spared for ever; recompensed in the earth, to be made meet for heaven. (Hebrews 12:10 .)

Much more then will the wicked and the sinner be recompensed. If the children be scourged, much more the rebels. If the fatherly corrections be so terrible, even when the child be accepted; what must be the unmingled wrath for the willful sinner? "If the righteous scarcely be saved; where shall the ungodly and the sinner appear?" (1 Peter 4:18 .) "If they do these things in the green tree, what shall be done in the dry?" (Luke 23:31 .) "Behold the day of the LORD cometh, that shall burn as an oven; and all that do wickedly shall be as stubble." (Malachi 4:1 .) Let the wicked tremble. Let the child of God be humbled in the dust — "My flesh trembleth for fear of thee, and I am afraid of thy judgments." (Psalms 119:120 .)

Footnotes:

†1 1 Peter 4:18, is verbatim, LXX translation of this version — So also the Syriac — ’Si justus vix vivit, impius et peccator — ubi reperietur?’

†2 Jacob, Genesis 27 with 33. Moses and Aaron, Numbers 20:12, with Deuteronomy 3:23-26 ; Deuteronomy 33:48-52 . Psalms 99:6-8 . Eli, 1 Samuel 2:27-36 . David, 2 Samuel 12:9-12 . Psalms 32:3-4 ; 38:1-5. Solomon, 1 Kings 11:9-13 . The disobedient prophet, 1 Kings 13:21-24 . Hezekiah, Isaiah 39:1-7 .