Psalm 34:11-22 Come, you children, listen to me: I will teach you the fear of the LORD.… In this second part the psalmist turns to believers, addresses them, and says that it is his design to teach them the art of leading a happy and quiet life, and of being secure against enemies. I. THE SECRET OF A HAPPY AND PEACEFUL LIFE. 1. The fear of God. (Vers. 11, 15, 18.) Childlike fear - compatible with trust and love. 2. The government of the tongue. (Ver. 13.) What is said on this in the New Testament by Peter and James. 3. Righteousness of life. (Ver. 14.) In its departing from evil - the negative aspect; and in doing good - the positive. 4. Strenuously seeking after peace. (Ver. 14.) Seek peace, and pursue it." Take care not to cause disagreement, but to promote good will and harmony. II. THE BLESSINGS THAT ATTEND AND FOLLOW SUCH A LIFE. 1. Prayer of the righteous is heard. (Vers. 15-18.) Contrast to the doom of evil-doers (ver. 16). 2. Deliverance out of all dangers. (Vers. 17-19.) Troubles, the dangers are called, and sufferings. 3. The presence and communion of God with his people. This implied or expressed in nearly all the verses. 4. The protection of their life and person. (Vers. 20, 22.) Contrast again to the fate of the wicked (ver. 21). The words of the twentieth verse fulfilled at the crucifixion of our Lord. - S. Parallel Verses KJV: Come, ye children, hearken unto me: I will teach you the fear of the LORD.WEB: Come, you children, listen to me. I will teach you the fear of Yahweh. |
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