Proverbs 3:17 Her ways are ways of pleasantness, and all her paths are peace. These words are designed to counteract a prejudice which prevails, that religion is connected with melancholy, and calls upon us to bid adieu to all the innocent and natural enjoyments of life. The case of those who suffer persecution for the sake of religion should be excluded from the present view, which relates to the ordinary state and circumstances of piety in this world. And in order to contemplate the tendency of any principle we must view it as operating in its mature, and vigorous, and perfect state. I. THE INFLUENCE OF RELIGION ON THOSE OBJECTS WHICH ARE SUPPOSED TO BE MOST CONTRIBUTORY TO THE PRESENT HAPPINESS OF MANKIND. 1. The prolongation of life. Piety inspires that moderation in all things which is equally favourable to the faculties of the body and the mind. It exerts a tranquillising influence on all our emotions. Involved in the prolongation of life is the preservation of health. The good man regards health as a talent entrusted to him. 2. The possession of reputation. Piety promotes esteem: a good man commonly lives down at last the enmity which his virtues had at first excited. 3. The acquisition of property. To the attainment of moderate wealth piety is favourable. II. THE PRESENT EFFECTS OF RELIGION WHICH BELONG TO THE STATE OF THE MIND. 1. Belief in the good Governor of all things. 2. Harmony with this Best of Beings. 3. Free access to this Almighty Friend. 4. The most essential elements of piety are all favourable to happiness. These may be stated as adoration and benevolence. (R. Hall.) Parallel Verses KJV: Her ways are ways of pleasantness, and all her paths are peace.WEB: Her ways are ways of pleasantness. All her paths are peace. |
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