Psalm 62:9 Surely men of low degree are vanity, and men of high degree are a lie: to be laid in the balance… I. RANK. Precedence among men does not depend on moral worth. It is a matter of etiquette. The man of "low degree" before men may be of "high degree" before God. The man who gets the "lowest place" in the great houses of this world may sit in the highest place in the kingdom of God. "Knighthoods and honours borne without desert are titles but of scorn" (Shakespeare). The true honour is that which cometh from God only. II. RICHES. Most people would like to be rich. In this, as in other matters, there is a right way and a wrong way. It is hinted (ver. 10) that if riches increase, it may be by "oppression" and "robbery." But though they should be obtained lawfully, they bring great responsibilities and risks, and often prove a delusion and a mockery (1 Timothy 6:9). The true riches are not in the hand, but in the heart; not in the abundance of things outward, but in faith and love and good works - in being "rich toward God" (Luke 12:21). III. REFUTATION. What others think of us is of importance. It so far settles our place and our influence in society. But the judgment of men is not the judgment of God. In the world, in society, in the Church, our reputation may stand high, but if our reputation and our character - which is what we are really and in the sight of God - do not agree, we are but hypocrites and liars. "Except your righteousness shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of God" (Matthew 5:20). - W.F. Parallel Verses KJV: Surely men of low degree are vanity, and men of high degree are a lie: to be laid in the balance, they are altogether lighter than vanity. |
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