February 4

"The Lord loveth the gates of Zion more than all the dwellings of Jacob." — Psalm Ixxxvii. 2.

IN this psalm glorious things are spoken of the literal Mount Zion, as typical of the Gospel church. One of these we have before us. Let us notice

THE PLACES MENTIONED. "The dwellings of Jacob, and the gates of Zion." By the dwellings of Jacob we are to understand religious families, where secret and social prayer are observed, and the Almighty is both acknowledged and adored. Respecting such families it may be said, Jehovah Shammah, the Lord is there. How delightful would it be if in every dwelling there was an altar erected to God! The gates of Zion denote public religious assemblies. Every ordinance may be called a gate of Zion: here the righteous desire to be found; here they knock, and wait, and watch; and here they are welcome.

THE PREFERENCE GIVEN. The language is forcible: — "The Lord loveth the gates of Zion more than all the dwellings of Jacob." But why is this the case?

Because there he is more glorified. A public acknowledgment of the excellences of an individual tends more to his honor than a private encomium. It was more honorable to David and Saul that a multitude publicly shouted the praises of their victories, than if one or two had spoken of it in the social circle. God is glorified in families where a few exalt his name, but more so in his temple, where every one speaks of his glory.

Because there he displays more of his power in the conversion of sinners. There his goings forth are seen, there he performs wonders by the rod of his strength, there he builds up his church, there continual accessions are made to its numbers; there, when the mind is shaded by solemn reflection, rays of glory shine from above, and heaven is brought down to man.

Because it more resembles heavenly worship. There are no secret or private acts of worship in heaven, all is public. What a vast assembly, every heart tuned to Jehovah's praise, and no jarring sound to disturb the harmony! If God loves the gates of Zion, shall not we? O yes, we will,

"We have been there, and still would go, 'Tis like a little heaven below."