Chapter 33
Chapter Outline
God to be praised. (1–11)
His people encouraged by his power. (12–22)Verses 1–11
Holy joy is the heart and soul of praise, and that is here pressed upon the righteous. Thankful
praise is the breath and language of holy joy. Religious songs are proper expressions of thankful
praise. Every endowment we possess, should be employed with all our skill and earnestness in
God's service. His promises are all wise and good. His word is right, and therefore we are only in
the right when we agree with it. His works are all done in truth. He is the righteous Lord, therefore
loveth righteousness. What a pity it is that this earth, which is so full of the proofs and instances
of God's goodness, should be so empty of his praises; and that of the multitudes who live upon his
bounty, there are so few who live to his glory! What the Lord does, he does to purpose; it stands
fast. He overrules all the counsels of men, and makes them serve his counsels; even that is fulfilled,
which to us is most surprising, the eternal counsel of God, nor can any thing prevent its coming to
pass.
Verses 12–22
All the motions and operations of the souls of men, which no mortals know but themselves,
God knows better than they do. Their hearts, as well as their times, are all in his hand; he formed
the spirit of each man within him. All the powers of the creature depend upon him, and are of no
account, of no avail at all, without him. If we make God's favour sure towards us, then we need
not fear whatever is against us. We are to give to him the glory of his special grace. All human
devices for the salvation of our souls are vain; but the Lord's watchful eye is over those whose
conscientious fear of his name proceeds from a believing hope in his mercy. In difficulties they
shall be helped; in dangers they shall not receive any real damage. Those that fear God and his
wrath, must hope in God and his mercy; for there is no flying from him, but by flying to him. Let
thy mercy, O Lord, be upon us; let us always have the comfort and benefit, not according to our
merits, but according to the promise which thou hast in thy word given to us, and according to the
faith thou hast by thy Spirit and grace wrought in us.
Chapter 34
Chapter Outline