Exodus 5:7-12 You shall no more give the people straw to make brick, as heretofore: let them go and gather straw for themselves.… "If thou come to serve the Lord," saith the wisdom of the Son of Sirach, "prepare thy soul for temptation." Have you listened to the gracious pleading of the Spirit of God, in sincere anxiety for a complete and eternal deliverance? You will meet with hindrances, one of the first will arise from those who make a mock at sin, who deride the privileges and duties of pure and undefiled religion. I. THE PREJUDICES OF THE CARELESS AND WORLDLY AGAINST SINCERE AND VITAL GODLINESS. 1. It is regarded as the dream and vision of a heated and enthusiastic imagination. 2. It is regarded as inconsistent with a proper attention to the duties of active life. II. ANOTHER TEMPTATION WHICH SATAN EMPLOYS TO OPPOSE AN ENTIRE DEVOTION OF THE HEART TO GOD, IS BY EXAGGERATING THE IMPORTANCE OF WORLDLY PURSUITS. "Let there be more work laid upon the men." What shall it profit a man if he shall gain the whole world, if he shall lose his own soul? A double caution may be deduced: 1. To those who would hinder the spiritual freedom of others whom they may control or influence; as Pharaoh would have impeded the political deliverance of Israel. You may settle from Scripture and prayer whether the resolutions and desires you oppose arise from the inspiration of God, or the imagination of men. Woe to him that striveth with his Maker. 2. You who are thus hindered, remember that Scripture addresses you with a cautionary voice Be not slothful in business. (J. R. Buddicom.) Parallel Verses KJV: Ye shall no more give the people straw to make brick, as heretofore: let them go and gather straw for themselves. |
    |