_A.M. 2992. B.C. 1012._ This Psalm is thought by most commentators to have been composed by Solomon, (the particle rendered for, being usually, and with equal propriety, rendered of,) and Bishop Patrick considers it as a commentary upon a pious maxim of his, often repeated in the book of his Prover... [ Continue Reading ]
_Except the Lord build the house_ That is, assist and bless those that build it, whether an artificial house, such as the temple, or the royal palace, or any of those numerous structures which Solomon raised; or rather, a natural or civil house, a family or kingdom; _they labour in vain that build i... [ Continue Reading ]
_It is vain for you_ Builders or watch-men, or other persons engaged in any design, which to you seems important; _to rise up early, to sit up late_ To use constant and unwearied diligence; _to eat the bread of sorrows_ Or, _the bread of fatigue_, as some render it; to labour hard, and fare poorly.... [ Continue Reading ]
_Lo, children are a heritage of the Lord_ They come not from the power of mere nature, but from God's blessing, even as an inheritance is not the fruit of a man's own labour, but the gift of God. He can, in a moment, blast the most fruitful stock, or he can make the barren woman keep house, and beco... [ Continue Reading ]
_As arrows are in the hand of a mighty man_ That knows how to use them for his own safety and advantage; _so are children of the youth_ Children born to their parents when they are young, who are generally the strongest and most healthful children, grow up, and become qualified to serve their parent... [ Continue Reading ]