Psalm 2:11 Serve the LORD with fear, and rejoice with trembling. Fear, very necessary for us all. Yet not inordinate fear. Religion regulates it and God's Word cautions us against superstitious terrors (Jeremiah 10:2, 3). But we are to take notice of what He does and learn His will thereby. Many fail to do this by the common events of His providence; hence special and extraordinary ones are, at times, sent to us. Men avoid the lessons of them. They say "They did not do us harm." But others may come and destroy you. And is not the fact of such forbearance a reason for not despising them? "But they are natural," say others, And are not life and death natural? Terror alone is of no use, but generally the first motive of reformation. "But our dangers do not proceed from our sins: we are no worse than others" — so speak some. Are we sure that we are not greater sinners than others? Think of our national sins. Some would fly away from God's judgments. Fly from your iniquities, if you. would be safe. Some are afraid to express their convictions lest the world despise them. But take care lest our Lord's words concerning them who deny Him before men apply to you. You are not called to forsake your proper duties, nor even relaxations, but your absorption in these things. Fear not man. The good will not shun you. Let the rest do so. Examine your state of heart. All is well if that be right with God. If not, humble yourself before Hint. (T. Secker.) Parallel Verses KJV: Serve the LORD with fear, and rejoice with trembling. |
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