Job 34:29 When he gives quietness, who then can make trouble? and when he hides his face, who then can behold him?… Wherever innocence is found, there perfect peace reigns. Man, as the subject of sin, carries on war against universal being — himself not excepted. I. PEACE HAS NO NECESSARY RESIDENCE ANYWHERE BUT IN THE BOSOM OF JEHOVAH. He is called, "the God of peace." Then — 1. Peace must be universally the gift of God. Finite being has no peace to confer on another; it must emanate ceaselessly from the bosom of Deity. 2. Peace is likewise the purchase of Deity. One who is God must bear the consequences of our sins, or His peace can never reach us. 3. It is the gift and creation of the Divine Spirit. Learn, then, to estimate the value of true religion. II. WHY, THEN, DOES GOD HIDE HIS FACE FROM HIS CHILD? 1. To lead man into intimate acquaintance with Himself. 2. To humble His family. 3. To teach them to prize communion with Himself above everything. 4. That He may try if anything can make them happy in His absence. 5. To chastise His children for their transgression. (W. Howel.) Parallel Verses KJV: When he giveth quietness, who then can make trouble? and when he hideth his face, who then can behold him? whether it be done against a nation, or against a man only: |
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