—We cannot say too much, it were well if enough could be said, to persuade people to live
together in peace. It is good for us, for our honour and comfort; and brings constant delight to those
who live in unity. The pleasantness of this is likened to the holy anointing oil. This is the fruit of
the Spirit, the proof of our union with Christ, and adorns his gospel. It is profitable as well as
pleasing; it brings blessings numerous as the drops of dew. It cools the scorching heat of men's
passions, as the dews cool the air and refresh the earth. It moistens the heart, and makes it fit to
receive the good seed of the word, and to make it fruitful. See the proof of the excellency of brotherly
love: where brethren dwell together in unity, the Lord commands the blessing. God commands the
blessing; man can but beg a blessing. Believers that live in love and peace, shall have the God of
love and peace with them now, and they shall shortly be with him for ever, in the world of endless
love and peace. May all who love the Lord forbear and forgive one another, as God, for Christ's
sake, hath forgiven them.
Chapter 134
An exhortation to bless the Lord.
—We must stir up ourselves to give glory to God, and encourage ourselves to hope for mercy
and grace from him. It is an excellent plan to fill up all our spare minutes with pious meditations,
and prayers and praises. No time would then be a burden, nor should we murder our hours by trifling
conversation and vain amusements, or by carnal indulgences. We need desire no more to make us
happy, than to be blessed of the Lord. We ought to beg spiritual blessings, not only for ourselves,
but for others; not only, The Lord bless me, but, The Lord bless thee; thus testifying our belief that
there is enough for others as well as for us, and showing our good will to others.
Chapter 135
Chapter Outline
God to be praised for his mercy. (1–4)
For his power and judgments. (5–14)
The vanity of idols. (15–21)Verses 1–4
The subject-matter of praise, is the blessings of grace flowing from the everlasting love of God.
The name of God as a covenant God and Father in Christ, blessing us with all spiritual blessings
in him, is to be loved and praised. The Lord chose a people to himself, that they might be unto him
for a name and a praise. If they do not praise him for this distinguishing favour, they are the most
unworthy and ungrateful of all people.