Psalms 55

REFLECTIONS UPON PSALM LV.—While here, as in a glass, we behold Jesus hated, reproached, betrayed, and murdered at Jerusalem, and the vengeance of God overtaking his persecutors in the destruction and dispersion of the Jewish nation, let us observe that the best of men are ordinarily most exposed to the hatred and reproach of a carnal world; and good men may, in great trials, find 68 75a their fears strong, and their faith shaken; but it is a great mercy that they have Jesus’ bosom, and the state of glory above, to flee to when they can get no peace nor rest in this world. The city, the church of God, may soon be fearfully corrupted by the influence of wicked rulers. And none are more apt to promote the corruption, or betray the saints, than apostate or empty professors. There has always been a sad mixture of such in the church. Carnal policy, and selfish ends, may carry men far and long in a religious profession, even where there is no sincerity of heart. Earnest prayers of faith are effectual to bring salvation from God. How shameful then is it that they are so little used; and that the stated meals for our bodies are more frequent than those for our souls! It is God’s being on our side that raises us above fear from our adversaries. Too often want of trouble burdens men in bold impiety. But impenitence and perdition are inseparably linked together. Falsehood and perfidy will quickly find an avenging God. But happy, happy for ever, are they who trust in the Lord, and by the prayers of faith cast all their burdens, troubles, work, and cares, upon God, as their God and Father in Christ!