Psalm 142:4 I looked on my right hand, and beheld, but there was no man that would know me: refuge failed me; no man cared for my soul. I. WHEN THIS COMPLAINT MAY BE MADE. 1. When they are at a loss with respect to soul concerns, and have none to instruct them in difficulties nor advise them (Isaiah 41:28). 2. When they have wandered out of the way, and have none to reprove them. 3. When they are visited with affliction, either in their persons or families, and have none to pray with or for them. As secret, so social prayer is a duty; and intercession is a necessary part of both. 4. When they are under distress and anguish of mind, and have none to comfort them. II. IMPROVEMENT. 1. In passing this censure, let us take care that we be not mistaken. Let us not give way to groundless jealousies, or be suspicious of our friends without a cause. 2. If none care for our welfare, what a mercy is it that God has excited in us a care of our own souls; that we are not in that stupid, insensible state in which we once were, and perhaps continued for many years! If others neglect our souls, it should more and more awaken our serious concern and anxious solicitude about them. 3. What a still greater mercy it is that God cares for our souls. 4. In order to avoid the charge in our text, let us not fall into the contrary extreme; and whilst we are busily concerned about others' souls, let us not neglect our own. (B. Beddome, M. A.) Parallel Verses KJV: I looked on my right hand, and beheld, but there was no man that would know me: refuge failed me; no man cared for my soul. |
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