Proverbs 28:1-25 - Homilies By W. Clarkson

(latter part)

The source of disturbance and the secret of security

We hardly need the pen of the wise man to assure us that—

I. SIN MEANS DISTURBANCE TO OUR SOUL .

1 . It is bad enough to be unfortunate ; to suffer from privation or loss.

2 . It is far worse to be guilty . We soon accommodate ourselves to our misfortunes; we readily adjust ourselves to our circumstances, even though these may be very narrow. But sin strikes deep, and its wound lasts long. Among other painful consequences it fills the soul with a tormenting fear.

3 . There are two alternatives open to guilt : ( Proverbs 28:13 .)

II. RIGHTEOUSNESS MEANS SECURITY AND SERENITY . "The righteous are bold as a lion." To the upright there are two sources of rest and strength.

1 . The consciousness of integrity . He that knows and feels his purity, his innocency, has a fearless heart, and shows a brave front to the enemy. He does not fear that the shafts of falsehood will pierce his strong armour of truth and equity.

2 . The favour of God . ( Proverbs 28:25 .) He "puts his trust in the Lord;" he commits his cause to the Righteous One; he is assured that God is on his side, and he "does not fear what man can do unto him." "The Lord is his salvation; whom should he fear?" (see Psalms 27:1-3 ; Psalms 84:11 , Psalms 84:12 ).—C.