Psalm 149:4 For the LORD takes pleasure in his people: he will beautify the meek with salvation. them: — I. THE DELIGHT WHICH THE LORD HAS IN HIS SAINTS. 1. Who are the Lord's people? "The meek."(1) As it respects God, it implies poverty of spirit; humiliation of heart arising from a sense of guilt, and a feeling of corruption; submission and resignation to His will; silence and patience under His rod, and a surrender of our own natural desires and inclinations to His overruling appointments. (2) As it respects man, it comprehends lowliness of mind, and a readiness to prefer others before ourselves; gentleness of disposition and behaviour; forbearance under provocations. 2. Why does He take pleasure in them? Because they are His people, purchased by His blood, renewed by His Spirit, redeemed by His power. 3. In what respects does He take pleasure in them? (1) He delights in the exercise of their graces towards Him. (2) In their services. (3) In their prosperity. II. HIS GRACIOUS DESIGNS CONCERNING THEM. 1. The happy effects of religion even in the present life. 2. They are "predestinated to be conformed to the image of the Son"; and when they awake up in another world, it will be after His likeness, without any remaining blemish, defect, or spot. (E. Cooper.) Parallel Verses KJV: For the LORD taketh pleasure in his people: he will beautify the meek with salvation.WEB: For Yahweh takes pleasure in his people. He crowns the humble with salvation. |
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