Psalm 139:24 And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting. : — I. THE TRUE CHRISTIAN MAY PLAINLY BE KNOWN FROM ALL OTHERS by three things: — 1. He does really rejoice in all the attributes of God. He adores His justice, loves His mercy, confides in His power, bows to His wisdom, is glad that He knows all things. 2. tie is anxious to know the worst of his case. He is candid with himself. He greatly desires that his aims, his heart, and his motives should be right. He fears the treachery of his own heart. 3. He hates all sin, wars against it, loathes it, and never will be satisfied till he is rid of it. He would not follow any wicked way. He would do nothing contrary to the law of God. II. THAT WE MAY DEAL ARIGHT WITH OUR SECRET SINS, let us — 1. Think much of the all-seeing purity of God. His holiness is a flaming fire. 2. Often compare our acts, and words, and hearts with the perfect law of God. The commandments are spiritual. If you have wrong views of the law you cannot have right views of sin, and so you may lose your soul. 3. Hide no sin from your own eyes, and refuse not to confess it before God. 4. Be careful not to subject your principles to needless trial. "We cannot hinder the birds from flying over our heads, but we must not let them light and build nests in our hair." 5. Set a double guard against those sins to which you are very liable. Are you easily made angry? Then avoid men who are apt to provoke you. Are you inclined to undue sadness? Then study the promises and seek the society of cheerful Christians. Are you fond of high living? Rather shun than seek convivial gatherings. 6. Remember that there is no danger of your hating sin too much, or of your being too watchful against it. 7. Cease to hew out broken cisterns which can hold no water. Cease to rely on human wisdom, power, or goodness. Cast your care on Him who careth for you. Often commit your soul to Christ. 8. When you have done your best, remember that you may be mistaken. Earnestly offer the prayer, "Search me," etc. (W. S. Plumer, D. D.) Parallel Verses KJV: And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting. |
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