Hints to Preachers

Verse 1.—The answer to these questions furnishes a noble topic for an experimental sermon. Let me suggest that the question is not to be answered in the same manner in all cases. Past sin, trials of graces, strengthening of faith, discovery of depravity, instruction, etc., etc., are varied reasons for the hiding of our Father’s face.

Verse 2.—Religious persecution in all its phases based on pride.

Verse 3.—God’s hatred of covetousness: show its justice.

Verse 4.—Pride the barrier in the way of conversion.

Verse 4 (last clause).—Thoughts in which God is not, weighed and condemned.

Verse 5.—“Thy judgments are far above out of his sight.” Moral inability of men to appreciate the character and acts of God.

Verse 6.—The vain confidence of sinners.

Verse 8.—Dangers of godly men, or the snares in the way of believers.

Verse 9.—The ferocity, craftiness, strength, and activity of Satan.

Verse 9 (last clause).—The Satanic fisherman, his art, diligence, success, etc.

Verse 10.—Designing humility unmasked.

Verse 11.—Divine omniscience and the astounding presumption of sinners.

Verse 12.—“Arise, O Lord.” A prayer needful, allowable, seasonable, etc.

Verse 13 (first clause).—An astounding fact, and a reasonable enquiry.

Verse 13.—Future retribution: doubts concerning it. I. By whom indulged: “the wicked.” II. Where fostered: “in his heart.” III. For what purpose: quieting of conscience, etc. IV. With what practical tendency: “contemn God.” He who disbelieves hell distrusts heaven.

Verses 13, 14.—Divine government in the world. I. Who doubt it? and why? II. Who believe it? and what does this faith cause them to do?

Verse 14 (last clause).—A plea for orphans.

Verse 16.—The Eternal Kingship of Jehovah.

Verse 17 (first clause).—I. The Christian’s character—“humble.” II. An attribute of the Christian’s whole life—“desire:” he desires more holiness, communion, knowledge, grace, and usefulness; and then he desires glory. III. The Christian’s great blessedness—“Lord, thou hast heard the desire of the humble.”

Verse 17 (whole verse).—I. Consider the nature of gracious desires. II. Their origin. III. Their result. The three sentences readily suggest these divisions, and the subject may be very profitable.