4. While we are in the midst of men we
shall be compelled to keep a corner in our diary headed concerning the worksof men. To be quite clear from the dead works of carnal humanity is the
devout desire of souls who are made alive by the Holy Spirit. The psalmist had
kept the highway of Scripture, and not chosen the by-paths of malice. We would
soon imitate the example of the worst people if the grace of God did not use
the Word of God as the great preservative from evil. The paths of the destroyer
have often tempted us; we have been prompted to become destroyers too, when we
have been sorely provoked, and resentment has grown warm; but we have
remembered the example of our Lord, who would not call fire from heaven upon
his enemies, but meekly prayed, “Father, forgive them.” All the ways of sin are the paths
of Satan, the destroyer. Foolish indeed are those who give their hearts
to the old murderer, because for the time he panders to their evil desires.
David could urge as the proof of his sincerity that he had no part or lot with
the ungodly in their ruinous ways. How can we venture to plead our cause with
God, unless we also can wash our hands clean of all connection with the enemies
of the Great King?
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