Isaiah 16:14

REFLECTIONS

READER! pause over this chapter, in the solemn contents of it, and then gather into one collected view, the history of Moab, in the scripture account of it, from beginning to end; and behold what a miserable life, the life of carnal men of every description and character is, in whatever point of view they are regarded. Moab is but a picture of men and things out of Christ, throughout the earth. The situation of Moab was indeed most lovely, in those rich plains of Jordan, by Jericho. But what are grapes and vineyards, or the fertility and riches of a kingdom, where the inhabitants know not the Lord? What is the whole Turkish empire, in all the luxuries the imagination can conceive, while under the curse of God in Mahometan darkness? Oh, Reader! think of the vast and immense privileges of the blessed gospel of the ever blessed God! It is not for the precious things brought forth by the sun, neither for the precious things put forth by the moon; but the good-will of him that dwelt in the bush! when once the soul is truly awakened to a sense of sin, and the apprehension of the wrath to come; when the short and perishing state of things around is properly seen, and as rightly valued; then nothing short of Christ can bring comfort and content to the heart. Reader! let us learn wisdom from the history and destruction of Moab, and send to Him, who is the ruler of our sinful land, our tribute, and seek in his sacrifice, pardon and forgiveness. Let us not only send to him, but come to him, the true Lamb of God, which taketh away the sins of the world. He is upon the throne of David, judging, and seeking judgment, and hasting righteousness. Yea, he is the Lamb in the midst of the throne; and that throne is a throne of grace, as well as glory. He will hear, and answer prayer, for he is still the meek and lowly Saviour, who hath said, Come unto me, all ye that are weary and heavy laden, and ye shall find rest unto your souls. Oh! for grace to come boldly unto his throne, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in all time of need!