Those who, under troubles and temptations, abound in fervent prayer, shall in due season abound
in grateful praise, which is the true language of holy joy. Especially we should speak of God's
wondrous work of redemption, while we declare his greatness. For no deliverance of the Israelites,
nor the punishment of sinners, so clearly proclaims the justice of God, as the cross of Christ exhibits
it to the enlightened mind. It may be truly said of our Lord Jesus Christ, that his words are words
of goodness and grace; his works are works of goodness and grace. He is full of compassion; hence
he came into the world to save sinners. When on earth, he showed his compassion both to the bodies
and souls of men, by healing the one, and making wise the other. He is of great mercy, a merciful
High Priest, through whom God is merciful to sinners.
Verses 10–21
All God's works show forth his praises. He satisfies the desire of every living thing, except the
unreasonable children of men, who are satisfied with nothing. He does good to all the children of
men; his own people in a special manner. Many children of God, who have been ready to fall into
sin, to fall into despair, have tasted his goodness in preventing their falls, or recovering them speedily
by his graces and comforts. And with respect to all that are heavy laden under the burden of sin, if
they come to Christ by faith, he will ease them, he will raise them. He is very ready to hear and
answer the prayers of his people. He is present every where; but in a special way he is nigh to them,
as he is not to others. He is in their hearts, and dwells there by faith, and they dwell in him. He is
nigh to those that call upon him, to help them in all times of need. He will be nigh to them, that
they may have what they ask, and find what they seek, if they call upon him in truth and sincerity.
And having taught men to love his name and holy ways, he will save them from the destruction of
the wicked. May we then love his name, and walk in his ways, while we desire that all flesh should
bless his holy name for ever and ever.
Chapter 146
Chapter Outline
Why we should not trust in men. (1–4)
Why we should trust in God. (5–10)Verses 1–4
If it is our delight to praise the Lord while we live, we shall certainly praise him to all eternity.
With this glorious prospect before us, how low do worldly pursuits seem! There is a Son of man
in whom there is help, even him who is also the Son of God, who will not fail those that trust in
him. But all other sons of men are like the man from whom they sprung, who, being in honour, did
not abide. God has given the earth to the children of men, but there is great striving about it. Yet,
after a while, no part of the earth will be their own, except that in which their dead bodies are laid.