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I. THE CHARACTER OF GOD'S PEOPLE.

1. The language employed refers to the Jews as the descendants of Jacob, afterwards called Israel.

2. The epithet which designates their character. "Worm." This word describes a person — mean, weak, vile, and despised (Job 25:5, 6). This epithet implies —

(1) Meanness. This meanness is frequently felt by Christians when they think of the grandeur and glory of God, as seen in His works and recorded in His Word (Psalm 8:3, 4). When they think of their sins and imperfections (1 Corinthians 15:9). When they think of their duties, trials, their ignorance, and their tendency to the grave.

(2) Pollution. A worm is regarded as unclean. Its element is putrescence. Man is now degraded from his original dignity. Every Christian feels his tendency to pollution.

(3) Danger. A worm is frequently exposed to danger. Every foot is ready to crush it. The body of man is liable to casualties. And the precious soul of man is surrounded by danger.

(4) Weakness. A worm is not able to make resistance. What resistance can a sinner make to God?

II. GOD'S PEOPLE ARE SUBJECT TO FEAR. "Fear not, worm Jacob." The Israelites in Babylon were sadly depressed in mind, fearing that God would be gracious no more. The people of God are subject to fear.

1. Their character, as represented by meanness, pollution, danger, and weakness, causes them to fear.

2. The multitude of their enemies causes fear

3. They fear Divine chastisements. These are needful, but "grievous" (Hebrews 12:11).

4. They sometimes fear the tests and trials of the future.

5. They fear death.

III. THE EXHORTATION AND PROMISE. "Fear not, thou worm Jacob, I will help thee." "Fear not!" Look from earthly resources to the mighty God of Jacob. Fear not thy foes. "He that is for thee is more than all that are against thee." I will help thee, for —

1. I have chosen thee.

2. I have redeemed thee.

3. I have adopted thee.

4. I have the ability as well as the will. By all means.

5. I will help thee with the ministration of My angels, by the events of providence.

6. I will guide thee in all perplexities.

7. I will not only help, but will glorify thee. Thou art a worm here. I will change thy vile body when the dead shall be raised, even as the chrysalis becomes a beautiful being after its temporary sleep,

(Homilist.)

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KJV: Fear not, thou worm Jacob, and ye men of Israel; I will help thee, saith the LORD, and thy redeemer, the Holy One of Israel.

WEB: Don't be afraid, you worm Jacob, and you men of Israel. I will help you," says Yahweh, "and your Redeemer is the Holy One of Israel.