Job 22:21

“Now acquaint yourself with Him, and be at peace.”

In estimating the characters and conduct of men, we must make great allowance for their prejudices and mistakes.

Unless we take into our consideration the erroneous idea which Job’s friends had conceived respecting the dealings of Providence with men, we shall be ready to view them in a most unfavorable light. Even with this allowance we scarcely know how to account for the extreme uncharitableness of Eliphaz. He is not content with accusing Job of secret sins that could be known to God alone, but he brings plain and positive charges against him of open visible crimes, no one of which could with even a shadow of truth be imputed to him. We regret to see such inconsistency in a man, whom yet we are constrained to consider as pious; and we turn from this painful view of him, to notice the excellent advice, which, though still under a mistaken apprehension of Job’s character, he gave him.

To a person under any circumstances, an acquaintance with God is most desirable, but more especially under such a dark and afflictive dispensation as that which Job at this time experienced. That we may invite you all to seek it, we propose to show,

I. Wherein a genuine acquaintance with God consists.

There is a knowledge of God which may be obtained from the works of creation; but this must of necessity be extremely partial and defective. They display his wisdom, and power, and goodness; but they exhibit no traces of that perfection which we so greatly need to be acquainted with, namely, his mercy in pardoning sin. It is from Scripture revelation alone that we can learn his true character as “a just God and a Savior;” and for a discovery of him in that endearing new, we must look at him as exhibited to us in the Gospel of his Son.

It is only in the face of Jesus Christ that all of God’s glory shines, 2 Corinthians 4:6.

It is only in the cross of Christ that all of God’s perfections are made to unite and harmonize. It is there alone that we can see “mercy and truth met together, and righteousness and peace kissing each other.” This then it is which constitutes a true knowledge of God; it is an acquaintance with the great work of redemption; a view of “God in Christ Jesus reconciling sinners unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them”.

II. What is that measure of acquaintance with God which we as sinners are privileged to enjoy.

It is not a mere speculative knowledge of these things, but an actual experiencing of them in our own souls; it is not “a hearing of God with our ears, but a seeing of him with our eyes,” as Job speaks; I mean, with the eye of faith, which is privileged to “behold Him who is invisible, Hebrews 11:27.” By faith “we have a fellowship,” yes a most intimate and endearing fellowship, “with the Father, and with his Son Jesus Christ.” God will come and manifest himself to us, as our God, our Father, and our Friend, Genesis 5:21. “By his Spirit he will enable us to cry, Abba, Father!” “He will dwell in us, and walk with us;” Christ will live in us, even as his heavenly Father lived in him; insomuch that “he himself will be our life, John 6:56-57 with Colossians 3:4.” What nearer intimacy can be conceived? Yet this it is our privilege to enjoy; this union with him, this committing of our souls to him, this receiving of all needful communications out of his fullness, this living entirely by faith in him as our Savior and our God. This, I say, is that measure of acquaintance with him which we ought to seek, and may actually possess, Galatians 2:20.

III. The benefits resulting from genuine acquaintance with God.

Who can ever fully declare what is implied in peace with God? Truly it is “a peace that passes all understanding.” But there is peculiar emphasis in the word “Now,” “Now acquaint yourself with Him, and be at peace.” What was the estimate which Eliphaz had formed of Job’s character? He viewed Job as the vilest hypocrite upon earth, and considered him as punished by God with most signal vengeance; yet he said to him, “Now acquaint,” now, notwithstanding all your vileness; now, in the midst of all these judgments—even now acquaint yourself with God; and “so shall good come unto you.”

This was indeed a just view of God, though an erroneous view of the poor afflicted saint. This is the view we should ever have of God in Christ Jesus; we should see him ready to bestow his richest mercies even on the chief of sinners, and as determined “never to cast out any who come unto him.” Be it known then, that, if only we will acquaint ourselves with God as he is revealed to us in the Gospel of his Son, there is not a good which God himself can bestow, which he will not richly grant to us. Nor is there a condition, either of sin or suffering, in which that acquaintance with him shall not be effectual for the restoration of our souls to peace. Were we the vilest of the human race, our iniquities would be blotted out; and were we in a condition a thousand times more deplorable than that of Job, it should turn all our sorrows into joy! Song of Solomon 2:3.

ADDRESS.

Now acquaint yourselves with God:

1. You who are in a state of sin.

Seek him in reading, meditation, prayer, etc.

2. You who are in a state of suffering.

Doubt not his willingness or sufficiency.

Charles Simeon

Job 21:14-15

“Yet they say to God:

Leave us alone!

We have no desire to know your ways.

Who is the Almighty, that we should serve him?

What would we gain by praying to him?”

As in the speeches of Job’s different friends, so in his answers to them, we must ever bear in mind the ground of their controversy. This, as we have often mentioned before, was a persuasion on their part that God in his providence would mark the characters of men by his dealings towards them; and that signal judgments of any kind were sufficient, without any other evidence whatever, to prove the pre-eminent wickedness of the person on whom they were inflicted. The different speakers indeed all wander occasionally from the point, and launch out into other topics; but all intended to keep this point in view, and to make it the ultimate object of their discourse.

The friends of Job had maintained their side of the question with great confidence, and had driven him more immediately to vindicate himself in opposition to the implied charge contained in their arguments; but here Job speaks less of himself, and directs his answer more clearly to the general question. He shows that multitudes of those who prospered in the world were altogether addicted to impiety; yes, that their very prosperity was made by them an occasion of more determined hostility to God, and yet God continued to prosper them both in life and in death, so far, at least, as to exempt them from any remarkable judgments either in the one or the other.

The impiety of these people, as described in our text, must not be interpreted literally, as if the words here used were uttered with their lips; they must be understood as marking rather the language only of their hearts and lives; and in this view they will be found to designate with equal truth the dispositions and habits of ungodly men in all ages.

In evincing this, we shall:

I. Confirm the assertion in our text.

The assertion itself is most humiliating, seeing that it lays to the charge of unconverted men these two enormous crimes:

first, that they cast off all regard for God;

next, that they vindicate their conduct as reasonable and proper.

1. Now that this is a just description of unregenerate men, we appeal to observation.

What is the conduct of the generality, when the light of divine truth is set before them? Do they not shut their eyes against it? Even the public exhibition of it they do not like; but if a pious minister or friend speaks personally to them in secret, they rather resent it as an insult, than accept it with gratitude. And by the aversion to holy things which they manifest, they, in effect, say to God, “Leave us alone! We have no desire to know your ways.”

If an attention to heavenly things is urged from a regard to duty and self-interest, the generality will deny that a life of godliness is either necessary or profitable. They conceive, that their time and talents are altogether their own, to be employed according to their own will and pleasure; and that all serious piety, and a life of communion with God—are sources rather of pain and melancholy, than of peace and happiness.

2. Now that this is a just a description of unregenerate men, we appeal to experience.

What does every man’s own heart declare? Let us all look back and see, What has been our conduct in relation to this matter? Have we desired the knowledge of God’s ways, as we have of the ways that lead to worldly honor and self-interest? Have we not, on the contrary, when God, by his providence, his Word, his Spirit, has been knocking at the door of our hearts, said to him, “Depart from me; I have other occupations and interests to attend to; You must wait for a more convenient season?”

If pressed by the exhortations of a faithful friend or minister, have we not vindicated ourselves as acting a wise and rational part; and asserted, (by our conduct at least,) that such a devotedness to God as was required of us was neither necessary nor desirable?

Yes truly, we all have “hated the light, John 3:19-20,” have wished it to be withheld from us, Isaiah 30:10-11, have “rebelled against it,” when it has flashed conviction on our consciences, Job 24:13, and have determined to go on our own way, in spite of all God’s warnings and invitations, Jeremiah 6:16-17; Jeremiah 44:15-17. By this resistance to God we have in fact:

denied his authority over us, Exodus 5:2. Psalm 12:4. Jeremiah 2:31,

avowed ourselves his decided enemies, Romans 8:7,

and lived without him in the world! Ephesians 2:12.

Let us now proceed,

II. To suggest some reflections naturally arising from it.

1. How marvelous is the patience of God!

The conduct above described is not peculiar to men of an abandoned character; it is found in every man. There are indeed some people comparatively religious. Of these it may be said, that they pretend religion, and even glory in the distinction which they assume to themselves as people fearing God and working righteousness.

But, in truth, there are no people more decidedly hostile to the Gospel than those whom we now refer to. No man was ever more zealous for a certain kind of religion than Paul in his unconverted state; yet no man was ever a more bitter persecutor of the Church than he. And it is a fact, that, when the Jews at Antioch wished to expel Paul and Barnabas from their city, they could find no people that would enter more cordially into their views, or more vigorously execute their designs, than “the devout women, whom they stirred up” to endorse and aid their proceedings, Acts 13:50.

“God’s ways,” whether of acceptance with him, or of obedience to him, are displeasing and irksome to the natural man; the one being too humiliating for him, and the other too strict and self-denying. And the contempt that is universally poured on those who “walk as Christ walked,” is itself the most unequivocal proof of the universality of our departure from God, and our hatred of his ways!

How astonishing then is it, that God should bear with us a single hour! How astonishing then is it, that he does not now retaliate upon us, as he will do at the day of judgment, and say, “Depart from me, you who are cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels!” Let us then “account the patience of God to be salvation;” and “let his goodness and forbearance lead us to repentance.”

2. What glorious tidings does the Gospel bring to our ears!

It was for such people that the Lord Jesus Christ came into the world, and offered himself a sacrifice to the offended Majesty of Heaven, “While we were enemies, Christ died for us!” To such people also are we sent, to offer them a free and full salvation; the extent or long continuance of their rebellion, is no bar to the exercise of divine mercy towards them, “Whoever comes unto me,” says our Lord, “I will never cast him out.”

O you who are convinced of your past iniquities, and are sensible of your need of mercy, hear what Paul affirms, “It is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, even the chief!” Do not imagine that God is filled with resentment against you, as your earthly parents would have been, if you had so treated them; he is plenteous in mercy; and, if you will go to him, he will “give you his blessing liberally, without upbraiding.”

If it is thought, that divine justice will require the execution of vengeance on such sinners as we—then be it known, that his justice is satisfied by the atonement which Christ has offered; and that he can now be “just, and yet the justifier of all them that believe.”

3. What a blessed change takes place in the great work of conversion!

The inmost dispositions of the soul are changed by grace; so that he who recently said unto God, “Depart from me!” now desires his presence above all things, and pants after God as the deer after the water-brooks, and considers “his loving-kindness as better than life itself.” Now he “counts all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus his Lord.”

Nor is it the principles only of the Gospel that he loves, but the precepts also; and the way of God’s commandments is as much loved as the way of salvation through a crucified Redeemer. Now he feels that “he is not his own, but, having been bought with a price, is bound to glorify God with his body and his spirit which are God’s.”

Nor is it any longer a question with him, whether there is any profit in communion with God; he knows and feels that there is no employment under Heaven so profitable; and that, in fact, there is no profit in anything, not even in attending the ordinances or in reading the Word of God—unless a blessing is brought down upon the soul by fervent prayer.

Beloved, show the truth of your conversion by the change in your dispositions, your tempers, and your habits. If you are indeed brought forth into marvelous light—them “walk as children of the light and of the day.” And as some remains of your former corruption will yet be found in you, be daily putting off the old man, and be putting on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness!

Charles Simeon

Job 20:22

“In the midst of his plenty, distress will overtake him; the full force of misery will come upon him.”

Men universally, by nature, seek their happiness in earthly things. And though they meet with continual disappointment, they will persevere in the same unprofitable course, “spending their money for that which is not bread, and their labor for that which does not satisfy.”

The question, “Who will show us any good?” is asked by every man; but it is the godly man alone who answers it aright, “Lord, lift up the light of your countenance upon me!” The godly man attains the object of his pursuit; but the ungodly man finds, by bitter experience, that, whatever the measure of his success is in the attainment of earthly things, “In the midst of his plenty, distress will overtake him.”

From these words, I will take occasion to show what a poor wretched creature a mere worldly man is:

I. The worldly man as viewed in himself, is wretched.

It is here supposed, that he may not only possess a very large measure of earthly things, but may have a consciousness that his portion is, as it were, “shaken together, pressed down, and running over.” Yet, in the midst of his plenty:

1. Distress will overtake the worldly man as it respects his present enjoyments.

Earthly things, of whatever kind they are—pleasures, riches, or honors—are all, in their nature, empty and unsatisfying. In their use, they are transient and cloying. In their effects, they are productive of trouble and vexation. Our blessed Lord has told us, that “a man’s life does not consist in the abundance of the things that he possesses!” And Solomon, after trying all things to an extent that no other man ever did, has given us his testimony respecting them, that they are “all vanity and vexation of spirit!”

2. Distress will overtake the worldly man as it respects his future prospects.

Every man has a consciousness that there is a future state; and that earthly possessions, so far from advancing our preparation for it, tend rather to divert our attention from it, and to obstruct our progress in the heavenly life. It is no uncommon thing for a man, in the midst of all his earthly pleasures, to feel them embittered to him, by a consciousness that he is hastening to the eternal world, and is unprepared for it! In fact, though men may, for a season, shake off the thoughts of eternity, they cannot so divest themselves of it in a time of sickness, and in the approach of death, as not to feel exceedingly straitened in their spirit, and to acknowledge that they have been all their days following a phantom that has eluded their grasp and disappointed their expectations.

But, to see him in his true colors, look at:

II. The worldly man as viewed in contrast with a godly man, is wretched.

As an ungodly man may possess an abundance of earthly comforts—so may a godly man be reduced to great straits. We can scarcely conceive a more destitute condition than that of Lazarus, or that of those persecuted saints who “wandered about in sheep-skins and goat-skins, being destitute, afflicted, tormented, Hebrews 11:37-38.” Yet, as the worldling is in distress in the midst of his abundance, so the godly are in abundance in the midst of all their straits.

1. The godly enjoy much in possession.

The godly have peace with God; and that is more to them than ten thousand worlds. With this they are content and reconciled fully to their state, whatever that state may be. However great their distress may be, they are resigned to it as their father’s will, and they assure themselves that “all things shall work together for their good.” They know that “their affliction is but light and momentary, and that it is working out for them a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory!” Hence, so far from being dejected by their trials, they even “glory in them,” and find them a source of solid satisfaction, 2 Corinthians 12:10.

2. The godly enjoy much in future hope.

The godly are enabled to look up to Heaven, with an assurance, that, however destitute here, they have in that blessed world “an inheritance incorruptible and undefiled, and that never fades away.” They have already a foretaste of that bliss, in “a spirit of adoption,” and in the sealing of the Spirit, which is to them “a pledge” of what they are speedily to enjoy in all its fullness. How empty do all earthly things appear to him, while in such an elevated state as this! A king upon his throne, if not possessed of these spiritual treasures, is to him an object of pity rather than of admiration and envy; so infinitely is the worldly man below the child of God! The worldly man, in having all things, possesses nothing; but the saint, while “having nothing, in reality possesses all things! 2 Corinthians 6:10.”

APPLICATION.

1. Never seek happiness in a way of sin.

Sin may afford a present gratification; but, though it be as honey in the mouth, it will be bitter in the belly! So we are told in the preceding context, verse 12-14; and so it is found by every man.

2. Do not be too intent upon having the things of this world.

In earthly business, of whatever kind, we may be diligent. Yes, and great diligence will consist with great fervor of spirit, and spirituality of mind, Romans 12:11. But “our affections are not to be set on things below.” In Heaven alone is the treasure which we are to desire; and “where that is, our heart must be also.”

3. Seek your happiness in God alone.

There can be no disappointment in that which will make you rich in possession, and in reversion too; for if Christ be yours, “all other things must of necessity be yours also; whether Paul, or Apollos, or Cephas, or the world, or life, or death, or things present, or things to come. All are yours; and you are Christ’s, and Christ is God’s! 1 Corinthians 3:21-23.”

Charles Simeon

Job 20:4-7

“Surely you know how it has been from of old, ever since man was placed on the earth, that the mirth of the wicked is brief, the joy of the godless lasts but a moment. Though his pride reaches to the heavens and his head touches the clouds, he will perish forever, like his own dung; those who have seen him will say, ‘Where is he?’ “

Prejudice or passion will miserably warp the mind’s judgment. It will hide from us what we might know, and cause us to pervert what we do know.

Never was this more strongly exemplified than in the friends of Job. Had they calmly considered, they might have comforted him in his affliction; but, by a hasty misapplication of acknowledged truths, they most unjustly and cruelly condemned him. Job had hinted to them the evil and danger of their conduct, Job 19:28-29. And Zophar, irritated at the caution, replies with great severity. His words, however, though misapplied, suggest to us two very important truths respecting lost sinners:

I. The prosperity of the wicked is transient.

Of sinners, some make no profession of religion, and others a false profession. Each of these characters may enjoy, for a while, great prosperity.

The profane are often exalted to places of dignity and power; they prosper in all their labors for wealth and advancement. They not only despise, but perhaps persecute the godly; they “triumph,” as though no evil should ever happen unto them. This the Psalmist saw with deep regret, Psalm 73:3-12.

Hypocrites also frequently are held in estimation, Revelation 3:1. They are objects of envy to many a humble and contrite soul. They will boast of experiences which might well be coveted; and even attain considerable heights of joy, Matthew 13:20. Their “excellency may mount up to the heavens, and their heads reach unto the clouds.”

But their prosperity will be of short duration.

Death will speedily seize upon the most stout-hearted sinner! Then all that he gloried in, shall come to an end. None of his “pomp shall follow him,” or his “wealth be carried with him.”

The hypocrite also shall have an end put to his deceptions; he shall soon appear in his real character. The all-seeing God will reveal the secrets of his heart! Nor is this time at any great distance, Deuteronomy 32:35; in comparison with eternity, the duration of his joy will be “but a moment.”

Then the wicked will experience a sad reverse.

II. The end of the wicked will be dreadful!

1. The wicked will then “perish” to their own eternal shame!

Many portions of Scripture appear to us indelicate; but God’s representations of sin are surely just, and well calculated to make us loath it. Such is his description of the ways of sinners, 2 Peter 2:22; and such his declaration respecting their end. Compare Revelation 3:16 with the text. They will perish under circumstances of disgrace and ignominy. Christ will not own them before his Father, Matthew 10:33. The angels will come forth to execute the vengeance of God upon them. The saints would even “thrust them out of Heaven” if they should seek admittance there, Luke 13:28. The damned themselves will insult them with bitter taunts, Isaiah 14:9-16; nor shall they ever cease to be objects of contempt and abhorrence. This is told to us in the plainest terms, Proverbs 13:5. Daniel 12:2. Nor, while they retain, as they must, their character, is it possible that their situation ever should be changed? Revelation 22:11.

2. The wicked will then “perish” to the astonishment of all that knew them!

The question, “Where is he?” refers primarily to the utter extinction of the ungodly; but it may well be considered also as an expression of surprise. The wicked little think where their course will terminate. If the rich man’s request had been granted, Luke 16:23; Luke 16:27-28, then what reply would his surviving brethren have made so soon as that in the text.

They would most probably have exclaimed: ‘Where it he? In Hell? Lifting up his eyes in torments? Is it really so? We never could have imagined it—we had no doubt but that he would be in Heaven. He seemed to us as worthy and blameless a character as any; nor had he himself any doubts but that he was going to Heaven!’

The hypocrites also often escape detection in this world. Perhaps they were celebrated after their departure, as eminent saints. We may conceive that their dearest friends, or their associates in holy exercises, may inquire after them in Heaven. What surprise and horror must seize them, when they hear of the doom which the heart-searching God has passed upon them!

If a minister is to have those as his “joy and crown of rejoicing,” who were truly converted by his ministry—then we may, not improperly, suppose a degree of disappointment, if he misses those, concerning whom he had entertained the most optimistic hopes. We may suppose him, upon the first discovery, to say, ‘Where is he! What, he is in Hell! I often feared that I myself would go there; but who would have ever thought that HE would be eternally damned!’

May the Lord grant that this may never be realized by any of us!!

ADDRESS

This has been so from the beginning of the world!

Does not the Word of God assert, that “it shall be woe to the wicked, Isaiah 3:11. Psalm 9:17.” Does not the most authentic history in the world prove it to have been so? Where are now the antediluvian scoffers, the haughty Pharaoh, the treacherous Judas, the worldly-minded Demas, the heretical Hymeneus? etc.

Does not conscience itself testify that it shall be so still?

Consider this: Can anything be more worthy of our consideration? If we have “but a moment,” should we not improve that moment? Are we willing to perish in this ignominious and awful manner?

Let us live no longer in the neglect of true religion.

The gratifications of sense can last but for a little time; but the consequences of neglecting God will endure forever. Surely the care of the soul is the “one thing needful.”

Nor let us rest in a “form of godliness” without experiencing “its power”.

It will avail us little to deceive our fellow-creatures. The higher we have been in their estimation, the deeper will be our disgrace. Let us then go to Christ for the remission of past sins. Let us approve ourselves to him in future, as “servants that need not be ashamed,” and labor to be “sincere and without offence until his coming again.”

Charles Simeon

Job 19:25-27

“I know that my Redeemer lives, and that in the end he will stand upon the earth. And after my skin has been destroyed, yet in my flesh I will see God; I myself will see him with my own eyes—I, and not another! How my heart yearns within me!”

The trials of the saints have not only been eminently conducive to their own good, but also productive of the best effects to the Church at large. It is in afflictive circumstances that their graces have shone most bright; and under them they have made the most glorious confessions, which have been recorded with admiration as long as the world shall stand.

Of all the calamities which Job endured, there was none more pungent than the uncharitable censures of his friends, which tended to rob him of his only consolation. But he rose superior to them all; and when he could not convince his friends by argument, he made his appeal to God, and wished it to be written for the vindication of himself, and the encouragement of others to the latest posterity. We shall point out,

I. The substance of Job’s confession.

That Christ is the person spoken of, the very terms here used sufficiently declare.

Job speaks of Christ as then actually “living”.

Doubtless Job was no stranger to the promise made to Adam respecting “the seed of the woman that should bruise the serpent’s head;” or to those so often repeated to Abraham, of a “seed, in whom all the nations of the earth should be blessed.” The father of the faithful had anticipated the advent of that promised seed, and had rejoiced exceedingly in seeing, though at the distance of two thousand years, the day in which he should exist, John 8:56. But Job seems not only to equal, but even to surpass that most distinguished “friend of God;” for he saw Christ as actually living; and understood that, which, when spoken by our Lord, so much confounded the Jewish doctors, “Before Abraham was, I am! John 8:58.” Yes, Job beheld him in his pre-existent state, seventeen or eighteen hundred years before he became incarnate! He beheld him as having life in himself, and as being the same yesterday, today, and forever! John 1:4. Hebrews 13:8.

He even declares Christ to be “God”.

The same person whom he calls “his Redeemer,” he afterwards calls “God.” And in this he is supported by numberless other testimonies of Holy Writ. The evangelical prophet tells us that the very same person who was “a child born, and a son given, was also the Mighty God, Isaiah 9:6;” and the New Testament assures us that He was “Emmanuel, God with us, even God manifest in the flesh, Matthew 1:23. 1 Timothy 3:16.” Job was accused of ignorance by his friends; but it is to be feared that they had not by any means such exalted views of Christ as he here exhibits.

This holy man yet further confesses Christ as “his Redeemer”.

The word Goel imports the nearest of kin, in whom the right of redeeming any estate that had been sold was vested, Leviticus 25:25. Behold then the depths of divine truths which had been revealed to Job! He sees his God incarnate; and himself as “a member of Christ’s body, even of his flesh and of his bones, Hebrews 2:11; Hebrews 2:14-15. Ephesians 5:30.” He sees Christ redeeming his soul from death and Hell; redeeming him at no less a price than his own blood; or, to use the words of an Apostle, he sees “God purchasing the Church with his own blood! Acts 20:28.”

Nor does Job view him only as incarnate, or as dying for the redemption of man, but as coming again to “judge” the world.

The words used by Job might be applied to the incarnation and resurrection of Christ; but they seem rather to designate his appearance in the last day to judge the world. This office is “committed to Christ because he is the Son of man;” and when he shall execute it, “he will come from Heaven in like manner as he ascended up to Heaven;” He will not indeed any longer be seen in a state of weakness and humiliation, but “in all the glory of his Father and his holy angels;” nevertheless He will then appear “as a lamb that has been slain;” and will summon all those who pierced him to his tribunal.

But that which gives inexpressible dignity to this confession, is, the full assurance it expresses of Job’s rising from the grave in that day to behold and enjoy Christ!

Job does not seem to have had any hope of restoration to temporal prosperity; but speaks in the most confident manner of his resurrection to eternal happiness. The destruction of his mortal frame by worms was not in his eyes any bar to its renovation in the last day. He knew that what was sown in corruption, weakness, and dishonor, should be raised in incorruption, power, and glory; that his vile body should be changed like unto Christ’s glorious body! 1 Corinthians 15:42-43. Philippians 3:21; and that when his earthly tabernacle should be dissolved, he had a house, not made with hands, eternal in the heavens, 2 Corinthians 5:1. He knew that, having awakened after his Redeemer’s likeness, he should behold him, not as now through a looking-glass darkly, but face to face, and dwell forever in his presence in fullness of joy! 1 Corinthians 13:12. 1 John 3:2. Psalm 16:11; Psalm 17:15.

This re-union of his soul and body, together with the beatific vision of his glorified Redeemer, was the one object of his most earnest desires, and most assured hopes. And he was determined, notwithstanding all the accusations of his friends, to maintain “this rejoicing of his hope firm unto the end.”

We shall endeavor to improve this subject by considering,

II. The lessons to be learned from it.

Whatever was written aforetime was written for our learning; and this confession in particular suggests to us that,

1. A full assurance of hope is attainable in this world.

Job’s assurance seems to have been remarkably strong; he not only calls Jesus his Redeemer, but proclaims his confident expectation of dwelling with him forever; he speaks of this, not as a thing which he surmised, or hoped, but as what he “knew” for certain.

Nor was this a privilege peculiar to Job. Had not Paul also the same delightful confidence, when he said, “I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed unto him against that day! 2 Timothy 1:12;” and again, when he professed that “henceforth there was laid up for him a crown of righteousness, which the Lord the righteous Judge should give him, 2 Timothy 4:8.” And has not the same Apostle bidden us all to show the same diligence to the full assurance of hope unto the end, Hebrews 6:11.

Why then should we rest satisfied without attaining this blessed hope?

Would it not serve as an anchor of the soul both sure and steadfast, Hebrews 6:19, amidst all the storms and billows of this tempestuous world?

Would it not be an effectual antidote to the poisonous breath of calumny, which will ever strive to blast the fairest characters?

Will not the testimony of a good conscience fill us with joy even when we are loaded with the bitterest accusations, 2 Corinthians 1:12.

Shall we not say with Paul, “It is a small matter with me to be judged by you or of man’s judgment, yes, I judge not my own self, but he who judges me is the Lord, 1 Corinthians 4:3.”

Seek then to “know your election by God;” strive to make it sure and evident to yourselves, 1 Thessalonians 1:4; and be continually “living a life of faith in the Son of God,” that you may be able to say, “He has loved me, and given himself for me! Galatians 2:20.”

2. A clear knowledge of Christ in his person and offices is the best groundwork of an assured hope.

Though Job had been too ready to boast of his integrity, it was not on that that he founded his hopes of immortality and glory. He knew himself to be under the curse of God’s broken law; and that Christ, as his Redeemer, was his “deliverer from that curse, having himself been made a curse for him.” And what other foundations of hope can we have? Are we holier than Job, who notwithstanding all his holiness exclaimed, “Behold, I am vile!” Have we not at least as much reason as he to “abhor ourselves and repent in dust and ashes Job 42:6.”

How then shall we pretend to be just before God? Let this be firmly settled in our minds, that we must flee to Christ for redemption, before we can know him to be our Redeemer. We must be united to him by faith, before we can claim him as our nearest kinsman. We must behold his glory now as it is exhibited in the looking-glass of the Gospel, if we would behold it with joy in the great day of his appearing.

Let us then seek to know Christ as he is revealed in the Word; let us “search the Scriptures, which testify of him,” and pray for the illuminating influences of that Spirit, whose office is, to “glorify Christ, by taking of the things that are his, and showing them unto us.”

Let us be ashamed that Job, who lived before there was any written record of Christ in the world, should know more of Christ than we, who live in the meridian splendor of gospel light. And, whatever we have attained, let us seek daily to “grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.”

3. There is no state, however afflictive, wherein an assurance founded on a saving knowledge of Christ will not support and comfort us.

It is worthy of observation, that from the instant Job uttered these words he was enabled to suppress, in a considerable measure, his bitter murmurings and complaints. And what greater support can any man need than to know that he has Christ for his redeeming God, and that after a few more conflicts he shall enjoy him forever, 1 Thessalonians 4:17-18. We do not indeed expect that a person shall always be so elevated by these considerations, as to soar above all sense of his afflictions. But sometimes even this may be enjoyed; and at all times we may hope to “possess our souls in patience, until patience has its perfect work, and we be perfect and entire, lacking nothing.”

Let the sons and daughters of affliction then have recourse to this remedy; let them labor to attain a thankful sense that they have been translated out of the kingdom of darkness into the kingdom of God’s dear Son; and then they need not fear but that they shall be strengthened unto all patience and long-suffering with joyfulness, Colossians 1:11-12. Let them seek an evidence that they are Christ’s; let them beg the Holy Spirit to witness to their spirit that they are children of God; and then their trials, however grievous at the time, shall only serve as a boisterous wind, to waft them more speedily to their desired glorious harbor!

Charles Simeon

Job 17:9

“The righteous shall hold on his way, and he who has clean hands shall be stronger and stronger.”

Among all the doctrines of our holy religion, there is not one more difficult to be received than that which here offers itself to our notice; it may well be numbered among “the deep things of God.” The manner too, in which it has been professed by men of enthusiastic minds, or antinomian habits—has rendered it odious in the eyes of thousands, who yet are truly upright before God. But neither the difficulty of guarding it from abuse, nor the averseness of men to embrace it—must deter us from stating what we believe to be the truth of God.

We would not needlessly go out of our way to introduce a subject of such difficult discussion; nor, on the other hand, would we feel justified in passing it by, when it comes fairly before us; we are bound “to declare unto you,” as far as we are able, “the whole counsel of God.” The doctrine we allude to is that which is generally called, The perseverance of the saints; and it is evidently contained in the words of our text.

Job, seeing how all his friends were puzzled and confounded by the mysterious dispensation under which he was suffering, consoled himself with the thought, that, when the outcome of it should be seen, it should greatly promote the edification of all who were truly upright; people who were unsound or hypocritical might be discouraged by it; but “the upright and innocent” would rescue it from abuse; and would take occasion from it to pursue their course with augmented steadiness and zeal.

Agreeably to this view of our text, we will proceed to state:

I. The general principles upon which the perseverance of the saints is founded.

There is in the souls of the regenerate a principle which is in its own nature imperishable and indestructible; and in support of this opinion, they appeal to several passages of Scripture which seem to establish this fact. They say, that “we are born of incorruptible seed, 1 Peter 1:23;” that, “because this seed remains in us, we cannot sin, 1 John 3:9;” and that it must of necessity “spring up unto everlasting life, John 4:14.” We think that there is in the Holy Scripture sufficient foundation for the doctrine of the perseverance of the saints. It may be proved:

1. From the immutability of God.

It is “from God that every good and perfect gift proceeds, Philippians 2:13;” even from Him “with whom is no variableness nor shadow of turning, James 1:17.” These gifts are the result of God’s own eternal purpose and grace, 2 Timothy 1:9; and they are bestowed by him with a fixed purpose to render them effectual for the salvation of our souls, 2 Thessalonians 2:13. Hence they are said to be “without repentance, Romans 11:29,” or change of mind in him who bestows them.

There is an inseparable connection between the original purpose formed in the divine mind, and the final completion of it in the salvation of the people thus chosen, Romans 8:29-30; and to this very immutability in the divine mind is the salvation of men expressly ascribed, Malachi 3:9. “Nevertheless, God’s solid foundation stands firm, sealed with this inscription: “The Lord knows those who are his,” and, “Everyone who confesses the name of the Lord must turn away from wickedness, 2 Timothy 2:19.”

2. From the covenant of grace.

In the covenant which God from all eternity entered into with his dear Son, Titus 1:2, there were a number given to Christ, to be his purchased possession, John 17:6. In behalf of these, the Savior stipulated not only to redeem them by his blood, but also to keep them by his grace, John 17:12; and the Father also engaged, not only never to depart from them, but to secure them from ever finally departing from him, Jeremiah 32:40. Provision was made for them, that they should have “everything that pertained to life and godliness;” and the promises which assured these things to them, were made irrevocable, 2 Corinthians 1:20; so that their consolation might be made abundant, Hebrews 6:17-18, and their salvation sure! Romans 4:16.

On this covenant the Christian lays hold, Isaiah 56:4; Isaiah 56:6; and in an assured dependence on it he may say, “I am confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in me will perform it until the day of Christ, Philippians 1:6;” and that nothing shall ever “separate me from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord! Romans 8:35-39.” In this covenant David felt his security, 2 Samuel 23:5; and in this may every believer trust, with humble, but unshaken, confidence, 2 Timothy 1:12; 2 Timothy 4:8-18.

3. From the intercession of Christ.

Whence was it that, when Peter and Judas resembled each other so much in their crimes, they differed so widely in their end; the one being restored to his apostleship, and the other being left to go to his own place? Our Lord himself tells us, “Peter, I have prayed for you, that your faith will not fail, Luke 22:32.” And to the same cause must be traced the restoration of all who are restored, and the stability of all who stand. Paul, in defying all his enemies, lays the chief stress on this; he mentions with gratitude a dying Savior; but glories more especially in the thought of Christ as risen, and as making continual intercession for the saints, Romans 8:34, with Romans 5:10, and Hebrews 7:25. The Father always hears Jesus; and, while he “appears in the presence of God for us,” “bearing our names on his breastplate,” and “making intercession for us according to the will of God,” we need not fear but that we shall in due time occupy “the mansions which he has prepared for us.”

On these grounds we believe that the saints’ perseverance in faith and holiness is secured.

II. The particular manner in which the most adverse circumstances shall be overruled to promote it.

This is the particular point to which our attention should be directed, in order to elucidate the true import of the text; for, in the text we have an assurance, not merely that the saints shall persevere, but that they shall persevere under circumstances which will prove a stumbling-block unto all whose hearts are not truly upright before God.

There are many circumstances which prove stumbling-blocks to the unsound professor. Among these we must first notice those which Job himself more especially refers to. Though he was perfect and upright in himself, he was oppressed with a heavier load of afflictions than ever fell to the lot of mortal man; and in the midst of them, appeared to be forsaken by his God. Now from such a dispensation, a man whose heart was not right with God would be ready to conclude that it was in vain to serve God; and that, if he is to be subjected to such trials as these, it would have been better at once to seek the happiness which the world affords; since God puts no difference between the righteous and the wicked.

But more especially, if there are heavy trials for righteousness’ sake, the unsound professor is alarmed; and he draws back from an open confession of Christ, lest he should be involved in troubles which he is not willing to endure, John 10:22.

But the greatest obstacle in the way of the unsound, arises from the falls of those who make a profession of religion. A man whose principles are not fixed, is ready to doubt whether there is any truth in the Gospel itself, when he sees a Judas and a Demas making shipwreck of their faith. Our blessed Lord told us, not only that such circumstances would arise, but that they would produce the most unhappy effects, “Woe to the world because of the things that cause people to sin! Such things must come, but woe to the man through whom they come! Matthew 18:7.”

But all these adverse circumstances tend ultimately to the establishment of those who are truly upright.

The assurance that troubles do not spring out of the dust, composes their minds under the diversified trials of life; they know, that, whoever the instrument may be, it is God who uses it; and that He does all things well.

If persecution rages, he has counted the cost, and is “ready to suffer the loss of all things” for Christ’s sake; yes, “he rejoices, if he is counted worthy to suffer for his Redeemer’s sake.” The imprisonment of Paul was designed to intimidate his followers, and to obstruct the progress of the Gospel; but “it turned out rather to the furtherance of the Gospel,” inasmuch as multitudes were encouraged by his example to preach the truth with greater firmness and zeal, Philippians 1:12-14.

So also, if there is any public disgrace brought on the Gospel by the misconduct of those who have been regarded as eminent in the Church, the truly upright Christian is not at all shaken in his faith; he knows that the Gospel is wholly independent of those who profess it; if eleven of the Apostles had proved like Judas, he would not therefore have concluded that there was either less importance, or less efficacy, in the Gospel of Christ. He considers the gospel as standing on its own proper grounds; and he determines, through grace, to adhere to Christ, though all others should forsake him.

Here it may be well to mark more distinctly the operation of such circumstances on the true believer’s mind.

Events like these humble him before God; they show him how weak he himself is, and how certainly he also shall fall and perish, if for one moment he is forsaken by God. They make him also more earnest in prayer to God. Seeing whence alone his strength must come, he cries day and night, “Hold up my goings in your ways, that my footsteps slip not.” “Hold me up, and I shall be safe, and I shall observe Your statutes continually! Psalm 119:117.

Moreover, he takes occasion from them to search and try more carefully his own heart, lest he also should have deceived his own soul. He is put also on his guard against temptations, and is made to watch more carefully against every occasion of sin.

Finally, he is made to feel the necessity of living more simply and entirely by faith in the Son of God, and of receiving out of his fullness those supplies of grace and strength, whereby alone he can hope to get the victory.

Thus those very events which weaken the hands, discourage the hearts, and subvert the faith of hypocrites, are overruled for the advancement and establishment of the righteous in every good word and work.

To guard against an abuse of this doctrine, we entreat you to bear in mind,

1. The characters who alone can take comfort in it.

It is “the righteous” only, and he who “has clean hands,” who have any title to the promise before us, or who is in a fit state to derive any consolation from it. If any are walking in the habitual indulgence of either open or secret sin—he is a hypocrite before God; and to be left to “hold on his way,” will be the heaviest curse that can be inflicted on him. Know, all of you, that “herein the children of God are manifest, and the children of the devil; he who does not righteousness is not of God! 1 John 3:10.”

2. The way in which this doctrine should be improved.

It is not to create in anyone an unhallowed confidence, and to make him imagine that he may relax his exertions; but rather to encourage his exertions, from the assurance that they shall not be in vain, 1 Corinthians 15:58. Whatever confidence we may feel, it must always be blended with holy fear, Proverbs 28:14. If the Apostle “kept under his body, lest after having preached to others he himself should become a castaway,” then who among us will feel himself at liberty to remit his caution, or relax his diligence, in the ways of God?

“The path of the just is as the shining light, which shines more and more unto the perfect day;” and while we have an evidence that our path accords with that description, we shall be in no danger of deceiving ourselves; but the very moment that our progress is doubtful, we have reason to inquire whether we are indeed upright before God. Use then this doctrine, not as an excuse for idleness, but as an incentive to diligence; that you may “not lose the things which you have wrought, but may receive a full reward.”

Charles Simeon

Job 16:19

“Now, behold, my witness is in Heaven, and my record is on high.”

Greatly was this holy man afflicted by his own friends, who came to condole him; so that he was constrained to say, “Miserable comforters are you all! verse 2.” Yet was he not wholly destitute of comfort; because he had the testimony of his own conscience, that, to the best of his ability, he had approved himself both to God and man; for neither had there been any injustice in his hands towards man, nor had his prayer been hypocritical before, God verse 17. Had he been guilty of any secret oppression, he wished the earth to disclose it, and his very prayers also to be rejected by his God, verse 18; but he could appeal to the heart-searching God himself for his integrity, “Now, behold, my witness is in Heaven, and my record is on high.”

It shall be my endeavor:

I. To unfold this passage in reference to Job.

These words may be understood as containing:

1. An unquestionable truth.

“The eyes of the Lord are in every place, beholding the evil and the good.” There is not an abomination in the heart, which is not seen by God, nor one that is not noticed in the book of his remembrance as a ground of his future judgment. To this the whole Scripture bear witness, “I know the things that come into your mind, every one of them! Ezekiel 11:5.” “I search the heart and try the thoughts, even to give to every man according to his ways, and according to the fruit of his doings! Jeremiah 17:10.” On the other hand, there is not a holy motion in the heart, but God notices it in the same manner, and for the same end.

“There was some good thing in the heart of young Abijah, 1 Kings 14:13;” and God made that the ground of distinguishing him above all his brethren, who were wholly given to iniquity. And where God is said to write in the book of his remembrance the conferences of his people, he is represented as taking peculiar notice of the thoughts of those who listen, no less than of the words of those who speak; so observant is he of every the minutest good that can be imagined. The sigh, the groan, the very look—is understood by him, and regarded with delight; and every tear is treasured up in his vial! Psalm 56:8, and shall be exhibited by him, in the last day, in attestation of our sincerity.

“When you were under the fig-tree, I saw you, John 1:48,” is a specimen of the testimony he will bear to our most hidden dispositions and desires.

2. A consolatory reflection.

Inexpressibly painful must have been the judgment of his misguided friends! Indeed, appearances were much against him; for why should he be called to endure such complicated and unparalleled afflictions, if he did not merit them? And, if he did merit them, what a consummate hypocrite must he have been, to have gained so high a reputation for piety! Such was the interpretation which his friends put upon the troubles that had come upon him. They thought that the dispensations of Providence were a sufficient criterion whereby to estimate a man’s character, particularly when they were so extraordinary and unprecedented as those which they now beheld. But Job knew that their accusations were unfounded, and their decision was altogether unmerited.

The testimony of his conscience, therefore, afforded him great consolation. He knew that God had witnessed in him a far different conduct from that which his uncharitable friends imputed to him, and that God’s record concerning him differed widely from theirs. To God, therefore, he committed his case, not doubting but that, when his sentence should be declared, it would be the very reverse of that which they so ignorantly passed upon him. Hence he felt as the Apostle did afterwards, under the imputations cast on him, “It is a small matter to me to be judged by you, or of man’s judgment; yes, I judge not my own self; but he who judges me is the Lord, 1 Corinthians 4:3-4.”

3. A solemn appeal.

There are many instances wherein the people of God have made their appeal to him, respecting things of which he alone could judge. Thus, Samuel, 1 Samuel 12:5; and David, Psalm 18:23-24; Psalm 40:9; and Paul, Romans 1:9. 2 Corinthians 1:23. Philippians 1:8; frequently called God to witness, either their innocence of evils imputed to them, or their performance of things to which he alone was privy.

It is in this sense, chiefly, that the words of my text are to be understood. In this view they have the nature of an oath, and should have put an end to all further controversy on the subject. In another place Job makes a similar appeal to God, and says, “You know I am not wicked,” that is, willfully and deliberately wicked, Job 10:7. And happy was he, in having such a witness as could not err, and such a record as could never be set aside.

Such being, as I conceive, the import of this passage, I shall now:

II. Improve it in reference to ourselves.

To every description of person is this passage capable of most profitable application. And I would, in reference to it, address:

1. The formalist.

You, because of the constancy of your observances, are ready to persuade yourselves that you are accepted by your God. But what, I would ask, is the witness which you have in Heaven, and what is the record that is on high concerning you? Can the testimony of the heart-searching God be in your favor? Must it not rather be to this effect? ‘I never saw you weeping for your sins; never did I behold you fleeing to Christ with anything approaching to the earnestness with which a manslayer fled from his pursuer to the city of refuge. Never did I hear you surrendering up yourselves wholly to the Lord, as his redeemed people. As far as outward services have gone, you have been forward enough; but to real vital religion you have been utter strangers!

Consider, brethren, I beg you, what reply you will make to such a testimony as this. You cannot set it aside; your own consciences attest the truth of it; yet, if it is true, what hope can you have before God? Indeed, indeed, you do but deceive your own souls, while you rest “in a form of godliness, and are destitute of its power!”

2. The hypocrite.

Well I know, that none will conceive themselves addressed under such a character as this. And I hope that there are none here to whom this character really appertains. But let me ask, Are there none who have embraced the Gospel as a system, and yet never been cast into the mold of it, so as really to be assimilated to their Lord in the spirit and temper of their minds? Can God say concerning all of you, “I have witnessed:

the subjugation of your passions,

the mortification of your lusts, and

the entire change of all your tempers; so that you are:

no longer proud, and passionate, and vindictive, in your spirit;

no longer earthly and sensual in your desires;

no longer cold and formal in your duties;

but you have become humble, meek, forgiving, towards men; pure, spiritual, and heavenly, in your own souls; and devout and holy before God.”

What do you say? Can the heart-searching God bear this testimony respecting you? Is this the habit which every hour bears to Heaven, to be recorded there?

Tell me, brethren, what does conscience say to this? Truly, it must be feared that the experience of many will not bear this test; but that their own consciences at this moment condemn them as guilty of gross, and flagrant, and frequent inconsistencies; and, “if your own hearts condemn you, remember that God is greater than your hearts, and knows all things.”

It is to little purpose that your external conduct is approved; for “God looks at the heart;” and expects that you “be renewed in the spirit of your mind.” He will bring all your tempers end dispositions under examination at the last day; and, if he cannot bear witness to the loveliness of them here—then you may be assured that you can have no favorable testimony from him hereafter. You may forget your actings of pride and envy, of uncharitableness and discontent, of covetousness and impurity—but God records them all in the book of his remembrance, and will surely bring them forth, to the confusion and condemnation of your souls, if you do not get them washed away in the Redeemer’s blood, and mortified through the influences of his Holy Spirit. I beg you to remember, that it is by your fruits that the tree will be estimated; and, according as they shall be found, you will either be translated to Heaven, or cast into the lake of fire, to be the fuel of God’s righteous indignation through all eternity!

3. The calumniated.

It is possible that some of you, like Job, may lie under censures which you do not deserve, and may “have things laid to your charge which you never knew.” It is possible, too, that appearances may be against you; as was the case with Joseph in Potiphar’s palace; and with Benjamin, when Joseph’s cup was found upon him. Should this be your unfortunate condition, commit, with all humility, your cause to God, and leave yourselves altogether in his hands.

Doubtless it is extremely painful to be calumniated and traduced; but the testimony of a good conscience is sufficient to support you, especially when confirmed by the witness of God’s Spirit in your souls. You remember “how many charges were brought against our blessed Lord; yet he never answered a word, insomuch that the governor marveled greatly.” Imitate you Him in this respect. Be not too eager about the vindication of yourselves; but let your life speak, and your spirit speak; and the time shall speedily arrive, if not in this world—yet certainly in the life to come, when your character shall be cleared, and your righteousness shine forth as the noonday sun.

4. The sincere.

It is an unspeakable consolation to know that God is acquainted with all that passes in our hearts! If he knows our defects, he also knows our humiliation on account of them. He knows what conflicts we sustain, and what victories we gain through the mighty operation of his Spirit on our souls. And if we are “Israelites indeed without deceit,” he will bear witness to it before the whole assembled universe, and grant to us the richest tokens of his mercy and love.

Be watchful, then, against every deviation from duty, even in thought; and labor incessantly to “keep a conscience void of offence, towards both God and man.” Bear in mind, that the eye of God is ever upon you; and endeavor constantly to walk as in his immediate presence. Thus will you approve yourselves to him, and ensure from him in judgment that testimony of his approbation, “You have been faithful over a few things; be ruler over many things; enter into the joy of your Lord!”

Charles Simeon

Job 15:31

“Do not let him who is deceived trust in vanity; for vanity shall be his recompense.”

The friends of Job were enlightened and pious men; but they altogether mistook the character of Job, and misinterpreted the dispensations of God towards him. They had assumed a principle which they carried too far; they laid it down as an invariable rule, that hypocrites would be visited with some peculiar judgments, and that extraordinary afflictions were in themselves a proof of some extraordinary wickedness which had procured them. But though they were mistaken in this, their observations are frequently most weighty and important. The words in our text are a kind of general truth, founded upon what Eliphaz had spoken in reference to Job. As applied to Job, it was not by any means pertinent; but as an abstract truth, it is deserving of our deepest attention.

I. Let us consider the caution.

People are universally “deceived” through the influence of:

their corrupt heart,

a tempting world,

and a subtle adversary.

And that deception manifests itself particularly in the “trust” which they place in “lying vanities.”

1. They trust in vain conceits.

People think themselves to be possessed of goodness and righteousness in such a degree, to warrant their expectation of happiness and blessedness in the eternal world. Tell them from God’s Word, that they are wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked—and they will deny your opinions as utterly false, and ridicule them as madness. They have no idea that they need:

the influences of the Holy Spirit to enlighten their minds,

or the blood of Christ to atone for their sins,

or the grace of Christ to renovate their hearts.

But let them examine their boasted attainments, and see whether they amount to anything more than “vanity.”

Let them see whether their wisdom has made them like-minded with God.

Let them bring their goodness to the touchstone of God’s law.

Let them try their strength in any act of spiritual obedience.

Let them see if they can love God with all their heart and mind and soul and strength.

Then they must soon be convinced that they are trusting to a mere vanity!

2. They trust in vain possessions.

If a man possesses much of this world’s goods he presently trusts in it for happiness, 1 Timothy 6:17, “his wealth is his strong city, Proverbs 10:15;” and he says to gold, “You are my confidence! Job 31:24.”

But is not wealth also vanity? What can it do to assuage our anguish? Or what stability is there in the possession of it? Do not “riches often make themselves wings, and fly away?” Or, when we are saying, “Soul, you have much goods laid up for many years; take your ease, eat, drink, and be merry;” may not God reply, “You fool! this night shall your soul be required of you!”

Let it not be said that men do not trust in riches; for the reverse is manifest beyond the possibility of contradiction, seeing that the acquisition of wealth is regarded as the chief step towards happiness; and men bestow ten-fold more pains in the attainment of it, than they do in the pursuit of Heaven!

3. They trust in vain hopes.

Everyone hopes that he shall be happy when he dies. But, if we “ask men a reason of the hope that is in them,” they can make no reply that will at all justify their expectations. They will say, that they live as well as others, and that God is too merciful to condemn them; but as for any Scriptural reason, they can assign none!

What a vanity then is this! If a man were hoping for a harvest while he neglected to use the proper means to obtain one—would not his folly be manifest to all? Why then will men dream of going to Heaven when they die, not only without having one word in all the inspired volume to warrant such a hope, but in direct opposition to the plainest declarations of God concerning them? Is not this a strange infatuation—a fatal delusion?

4. They trust in vain purposes.

There is no one so hardened, but he intends at some future period to repent. All who have ever reflected on the value of their souls, or the importance of eternity, must have purposed in their minds that they would prepare to meet their God. But in this state they continue without carrying their purposes into execution.

The young confess the necessity of repentance, and declare their intention to repent in the future; but they arrive at manhood, and genuine repentance is unattained.

They proceed to a more advanced period of life, and even to old age, and genuine repentance is still as far from them as ever!

Thus they live, always purposing, but never accomplishing their purpose, until the time for working is forever past!

Can there be a greater vanity than this? And does not the trusting in such a vanity prove a man to be deceived?

That we may not ourselves be guilty of this folly,

II. Let us consider the reason with which the caution is enforced.

“Do not let him who is deceived trust in vanity; for vanity shall be his recompense.”

God has wisely ordained that men should reap according to what they sow, Galatians 6:7-8. Proverbs 4:8. And it will surely be found, sooner or later, that “they who trust in vanity, shall have vanity for their recompense!”

1. They shall reap disappointment.

God alone is the proper object of our trust and confidence, because he alone can support us, and make us eternally happy.

If we have looked to sin for happiness, we will venture to ask, with the Apostle, “What fruit have we now of those things whereof we are ashamed?”

If we have sought happiness in things lawful, still we must confess, that the creature, however excellent in itself, is but a broken cistern that can hold no water, and that must consequently fail us when we most need its support.

We may fitly compare those who expect solid satisfaction in the creature, to a man almost famished who dreams that he is eating and drinking, but awakes afterwards as empty and unsatisfied as before! Isaiah 29:8. Truly, “he fills his belly with the east wind, verse 2;” and his fairest prospects shall “be as the unripe grape shaken off from the vine, or the blossom cast off from the olive tree! verse 33.”

2. They shall reap vexation.

Solomon has observed respecting all the choicest things under the sun, that they are “vanity and vexation of spirit;” and the experience of all attests the truth of his observation. The more we trust in the creature, the more pain, generally speaking, it will occasion us; it will not only be a broken staff that refuses to support us, but a sharp “reed that will pierce through the hand that leans upon it! 2 Kings 18:21.”

When Ahaz relied upon the Assyrian monarch to extricate him from his troubles, he found nothing but additional vexation, “Tiglath-pileser distressed him, but helped him not, 2 Chronicles 28:16; 2 Chronicles 28:20.”

Thus it will be with all who trust in vanities of any kind, or seek for happiness in anything but God. They may not yet have reached the crisis of their fate; but vanity and vexation are inseparable, both in this world and in the world to come. They may think that they have a feast to come; but while dreaming of something pleasing to their palate, they will find that they are “feeding on ashes, and a deceived heart has turned them aside! Isaiah 44:20. Ecclesiastes 5:16-17.”

3. They shall reap ruin.

We well know how the tasting of the forbidden fruit, which promised such gratification and benefit to our first parents, terminated, and what misery it brought on them and their posterity.

Just so, the same recompense awaits us also, if we trust in lying vanities, instead of depending wholly on our God.

Hear what God himself says respecting this, “Cursed be the man who trusts in man, and that makes flesh his arm, and whose hope departs from the Lord! Jeremiah 17:5.” How should we tremble at such a denunciation as this! O let it have a befitting influence on our minds; and stimulate us to seek our happiness where alone it can be found.

We conclude with observing:

1. How necessary is it to accurately understand the state and habit of our minds!

If it were said that only gross sin should issue in eternal misery, we would not be surprised. But we are told that the mere “trusting in vanity,” independent of any gross sins which may flow from it, “will have vanity for its recompense.”

Let us look then not to our actions only, but to the state and habit of our minds; since our happiness both in time and in eternity depends no less on the latter than on the former.

Let us not be satisfied that we are free from any flagrant transgressions, while we are relying on anything besides God.

Let us observe whether we practically feel the emptiness of all created things, and their utter insufficiency to make us happy either here or hereafter. And let us be going forth to God in the constant exercise of prayer, and “commit our souls to him in well-doing, as into the hands of a faithful Creator.”

2. How thankful we should be, that there is an all-sufficient Friend in whom we may trust!

God in Christ is the only legitimate object of our hope and confidence! We are told, under the figure of Eliakim, that “Christ has the key of David; that he opens and no man shuts, and shuts and no man opens; and that on him must hang all the glory of his Father’s house! Isaiah 22:20-24.” “Every vessel in the Lord’s house, whether great or small, must hang on him;” and every care must be devolved on him.

In Jesus there is a fullness of all that we can need for time and eternity. In Him there is:

wisdom for the blind,

righteousness for the guilty,

sanctification for the polluted,

and redemption for the enslaved!

Jesus is all of this to those who trust in him!

Be thankful then, brethren, for such a friend, and for the command given to you by God, “Trust in him at all times!” Rejoice that he can bear your every burden, and supply your every need!

Just as those who trust in vanity will have vanity for its recompense; so a “confidence in Jesus will have a great, rich, everlasting recompense of reward! Hebrews 10:35.”

Charles Simeon

Job 14:14

“All the days of my appointed time I will wait, until my change comes.”

“Is there not an appointed time to man upon earth? Job 7:1.” Yes, there is; the time for every man’s entrance into the world, and the time for his continuance in it, are fixed by Almighty God, from whose hand we come, and by whose hand alone we are upheld.

Successive generations arise, and are swept away, like the foliage, which by revolving seasons is produced and destroyed. But in this the illustration fails, “for there is hope for a tree, if it is cut down, that it will sprout again, and that the tender branch thereof will not cease. Though the root thereof wax old in the earth, and the stock thereof die in the ground—yet, through the scent of water, it will bud, and bring forth boughs like a plant! But man dies, and wastes away; yes, “man gives up his spirit, and where is he?” “As the waters fail from the sea, and the flood decays and tries up; so man lies down, and rises not, until the heavens are no more, verse 7-12.”

The change at death is irreversible! Therefore, whether a man is now elated with joys or depressed with sorrows—it befits him to look ahead to that period, when all present things shall have passed away—and an eternity, an unalterable eternity, shall commence!

In the prospect of this period, Job consoled himself under his accumulated sorrows; and determined to wait with patience all the days of his appointed time, until this change should come.

I. Consider: What is that change that awaits us all?

The voice of inspiration tells us, “It is appointed unto men once to die; and after that the judgment! Hebrews 9:27.”

1. The change that takes place in death is great.

That which passes upon the body we can in some measure appreciate; because we see before our eyes the frame which but lately exhibited the loveliest evidences of creative wisdom, despoiled of all its powers, and reduced to the lowest state of degradation and deformity.

But who can estimate the change which death produces on the soul? Who can form any adequate idea of its views and feelings in a disembodied state? Respecting it we know little more than that it exists; of the mode of its existence, or the nature of its operations, or the extent of its powers—we have no means of judging. That it is in a state of inconceivable happiness or inconceivable misery, indeed, we have no doubt; but all beyond that is mere conjecture. This, however, sufficiently warrants us to affirm that the change which takes place in death is great.

2. The change that takes place in death is momentous.

It is a transition, not only from the use of means to the absence of all means of grace, but from a state of probation to a state of retribution. Here on earth we can read the Word of God, and hear it from God’s appointed ministers. Here we can draw near to God in prayer, and implore mercy at his hands, and plead his great and precious promises, and flee for refuge to the hope that is set before us.

In our present state there is “a cloud of witnesses,” surveying all our motions, and, with affectionate solicitude, panting for our success, Hebrews 12:1. God himself is watching over us, and saying, “How shall I give you up? Hosea 11:8.” “Will you not be made clean? When shall it once be? Jeremiah 13:27.” But the very instant that the soul departs from the body, its state is fixed; all opportunities of promoting its welfare are terminated, Ecclesiastes 9:10; and a sentence of happiness or misery is awarded to it, according to what it has done in the body during the period of its existence here.

The awfulness of this change is yet further increased by the following,

3. The change that takes place in death is permanent.

True it is, indeed, that the body shall undergo a further change; because it will be raised again, to participate the lot which had been previously assigned to the soul. But, from the instant of its dissolution, its doom was fixed; and to all eternity it will remain an heir of happiness or woe.

Conceive of the soul and body exalted to the throne of God, to enjoy all his blessedness and glory; or cast down to Hell, to endure all the terrors of his wrath! Conceive its state irreversibly and unalterably fixed, so that, when millions of ages shall have rolled on, it shall be no nearer a termination than at its commencement! In what a view does this exhibit the change that shall take place at death! Truly, this is a subject which deserves the deepest consideration, and which, above all others, ought to operate with the greatest force upon our minds!

II. Consider: What is our present duty in reference to death?

We should continually look forward to that change, and “wait” for it in a state:

1. Of patient expectation.

When trouble comes upon us, we are apt to feel impatience, and are ready, like Elijah, to pray that “God would take away our life.” Many, alas! proceed even to the extremity of terminating their lives by suicide; and I cannot but think that the act of suicide would be still more common, if the dread of a hereafter did not operate to produce a submission to present afflictions, as, upon the whole, a preferable alternative. But we should bear in mind:

that “the number of our days is determined” by our unchangeable Maker;

that they are continually and speedily drawing to a close;

that, in a little time, our afflictions, however great they may at present be, will come to a close;

and, consequently, like people waiting for the morning, we should submit with patience to the evils of the night.

2. Of diligent preparation.

The present is the only time for securing happiness in the eternal world. Now, therefore, every hour should be improved for that end. Whatever talents have been committed to us, we should employ them so as to give a good account of them at last. If we have but one talent, we should not hide it in a napkin, but turn it to the best account that we are able; so that our Divine Master may, at his coming, receive his own with interest.

Let this subject teach us:

1. The folly of worldly ambition.

What if we possessed all that the world could give? We might speedily, like Job, be dispossessed of all, or be rendered incapable of enjoying it. At all events, the instant our “change” comes—we must resign it all, and go naked out of the world, even as naked as we came into it. Who that reflects on this, does not see that vanity is inscribed on all created good?

2. The wisdom of genuine piety.

Genuine piety is that which alone will profit us in the eternal world; and the effects of that remain unchangeable for evermore. Know, then, that “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom; all who follow his precepts have good understanding. To him belongs eternal praise! Psalm 111:10.”

Charles Simeon

Job 14:10

“Man dies and is laid low; he breathes his last and is no more.”

Afflictions, while they wean us from the love of this present world, serve to familiarize us with the thoughts of death, and to make that which to our nature is terrible, an object of desire and hope! See Job 7:1-10 and Job 14:1-2. But it is proper for us to contemplate “death” while we are yet in a state of health and prosperity; and, especially, to make the removal of others to the eternal world an occasion of considering what our own state may shortly be.

Man consists of soul and body. These, in death, are separated; the body returning to its native dust, and “the soul returning to God who gave it.” This separation must soon take place, whatever be our rank, our age, our employment. The very instant that “our soul is required of us,” it must be surrendered up; nor can the skill of all the physicians in the universe enable us to ward off the stroke of death one single hour!

And when the hour arrives for “man to give up the spirit, where is he?” While he is yet alive, we may find him. His office in life will assist us in our inquiry. The student, the mechanic, the man of pleasure, yes, and even the traveler, may be sought for, each in his own vocation, and may be found without great difficulty. But who shall find the man, when once his spirit has taken its flight to the invisible world? No more shall he return to his former abode; no more have fellowship with his former friends. The house he has built, or the books he has written, may remain; but he himself shall be far away, and the place he has inhabited shall know him no more. A tree that is cut down may sprout again; but not so the man that dies—he shall pass away as a morning cloud, and be seen no more! Ecclesiastes 9:10.

1. After death, where is a man as to any opportunity of serving God?

Once, he had one talent at least committed to him, and he might have improved it for God; but now it is taken from him. Whatever he once possessed of corporeal or mental power, of time, of wealth, of influence, is all gone forever; and he can do no more for God than if he had never existed in the world!

2. After death, where is a man as to any means of benefitting his own soul?

Time was, when he could read the blessed book of God, and draw near to the throne of grace, and pour out his soul in prayer, and lay hold on the promises of the Gospel, and seek from the Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, such communications of grace and mercy and peace as were needful for him. But this time is passed away; no access to God now; no help from the Savior now; no scope for repentance now; none of these things remain to a soul that is once removed to the eternal world! verse 7-12. The work that is unfinished now will remain unfinished forever.

3. After death, where is a man as to any hope of carrying into effect his purposes and resolutions?

There are few so hardened, but they have some thought or purpose of turning unto God before they die. To the mirthful, the laborious, the dissolute—the fit time for religious services has not yet arrived; but all have a secret conviction, that the concerns of the soul deserve some attention; and they hope that, in a dying-hour at least, they shall regard what, in despite of all their levity, they know to be the one thing needful.

Perhaps the young only waited until they were settled in life; or until their children should be grown up, and leave them more at leisure to follow the dictates of their better judgment. Perhaps those who were immersed in earthly cares only waited until they should be able to retire from the world, and to devote a good measure of their attention to heavenly things. But “the day is closed upon them; and the night has come in which no man can work;” “their soul being, as it were, prematurely and unexpectedly required of them,” their hopes are never realized, their desires never are accomplished!

4. After death, where is a man as to any possibility of preparing for his eternal state?

The fight is terminated; the race is closed; the crown is awarded. There is no return to the field of action; no further scope for amended efforts. “As the tree falls, so it lies;” and so it will lie to all eternity. Pardon, peace, holiness, glory, are all at an unapproachable distance to him who dies without having attained the possession of them. There is an impassable gulf between him and Heaven; and he must take his portion forever in that place for which alone he is prepared!

Permit me, then, now to ask:

1. If the time had come for us to “give up our spirit,” where would we be?

This is a thought which ought frequently and deeply to occupy all our minds. Of individual people we can know but little; but respecting characters we may form a very correct judgment.

For instance, we know where the man who dies impenitent shall be, Luke 13:3; Luke 13:5.

We know where the man who has not fled to Christ for refuge shall be, John 3:18; John 3:36.

We know where also the hypocritical professor shall be, Matthew 7:21-23.

And if we will candidly search out our own character, we may form a very accurate estimate respecting our future destination. I beg you, then, to examine carefully into the state of your own souls, in reference to your penitence; your faith; your obedience to God’s commands; and then to say, as before God, what expectations the result of that inquiry will authorize?

Reflect, too, I beg you, on the inconceivable difference of those two states, to one of which you must go. Reflect also on the different emphasis with which the my text will be uttered by your surviving friends, according as their hopes or apprehensions respecting you are formed.

2. As the time for your giving up the spirit will shortly come, “Where should you now be?”

Are the scenes of gaiety and dissipation those which you should chiefly desire? Should not rather the house of God be the place where you should delight to resort? And should not your own closet be frequented by you for the purposes of reading scripture, and meditation, and prayer? In a word, should you not live as dying men, and improve your time in preparation for eternity? Realize the thought of your feelings in that day, when, in the eternal world, you shall say, “Where am I?”

O! the blessedness of that reflection, if you died in a state of acceptance with God; and the anguish it will occasion, if you died under his displeasure! I beg you, brethren, waste no more time in vanity and folly, but attend now to the great concerns of your souls; that, if the inquiry be made either here or in the invisible world, “Where is he?” the answer may be, “He is happy forever, in the bosom of his God!”

Charles Simeon