May 19

"I had fainted, unless I had believed to see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living." — Psalms 27:13.

CALVIN calls the Psalms the anatomy of the soul — they lay open the thoughts, feelings, inward workings and desires of the believer's heart; and describe very accurately our joys and sorrows, hopes and fears. They may be compared to a mirror in which we may behold our own resemblance. In this passage observe

THE SCENES OF DISTRESS ALLUDED TO. They were such as were ready to make him faint. We have heard of the afflictions of David, and how he was tried in his government, his family and household, as well as in his own experience. How many things combine to try and perplex the believer! His is not a path strewed with roses; he is not permitted to enjoy the sunshine of prosperity, and dwell at ease; he sails not along a calm and smooth stream, but is tossed with foaming billows and raging waves, ere he enters the port of peace. Our greatest trials often arise from our dearest comforts — and the rose that we press to our bosom is encircled with sharp and prickling thorns, which inflict many a wound, and cause many a pang. How often under the accumulated weight of trials are we ready to faint!

THE EXPRESSION OF CONFIDENCE STATED. Note here

The nature of the principle possessed. It was faith. This grace is necessary in every step of our journey — in all the movements of our mind towards God — and in every devotional exercise. Faith extracts the sweetness of comfort out of the bitterness of affliction, and discerns the gilded rays of the sun behind the dark clouds of trial. It inspires us with courage when we are ready to faint; and sets our feet upon a rock, so that we can stand secure amidst the tumult of the waters with which we are surrounded.

The object to which it directs us. "The goodness of the Lord." What an extensive subject for our contemplation! Think of his goodness in providence — how often has he interposed on our behalf, and turned the curse into a blessing! But the goodness of his grace as far exceeds his providential favors, as the glorious splendor of the sun outshines the pale beams of the lamp of night.

The place of its manifestation. "In the land of the living." This may refer to the present life — to the sacred temple below, and the glorious sanctuary on high. Thus in the darkest season we must trust in God, and not be "wearied and faint in our minds." Soon the mysteries of Providence shall be solved, and the curtain which now conceals so much from us shall be drawn up; while millions of voices exclaim, "He hath done all things well."