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Winter is the season of frost. Then there is ice on every hand. There are perils on the land and on the water.

I. THERE ARE SLIPPERY PLACES IN LIFE.

1. Scenes of animal excitement. The market — the theatre — the social feast — the excitements of wine and music, such things as work upon the senses, and enkindle the passions.

2. Opportunities of selfish gratification.

3. Company of the ungodly.

4. When tempted to doubt God's righteousness and love.

II. THOSE WHO WALK IN SLIPPERY PLACES ARE IN DANGER OF FALLS.

1. Insecurity.

2. Risk of injury.

(1)  To peace.

(2)  To character.

(3)  To usefulness.

III. SLIPPERY PLACES PROVE FATAL TO THE WICKED.

1. Unmask the evil of their character (Proverbs 11:3). Judas.

2. Reveal the worthlessness of their hopes. Seem to thrive, promise themselves ease and length of days. Vanity. When tested they fail utterly (ver. 17; Proverbs 29:1; Psalm 146:4; Job 8:13-20).

3. Manifest that they are the objects of God's displeasure. Nothing keeps them out of hell but God's mercy. Destruction is impending. Sure — sudden — overwhelming.

IV. SOME COUNSELS AS TO SLIPPERY PLACES.

1. Avoid them, when possible (Psalm 119:101; Proverbs 1:10; 1 Thessalonians 5:10; Psalm 17:4).

2. When you do come to them walk warily. "Watch and pray." "Be not high-minded, but fear."

3. Take such friendly help as may be available (Ephesians 6:15; Psalm 23:4; Ecclesiastes 4:9, 10; Psalm 26:1; Psalm 119:63).

4. Should you fall, endeavour to get good from the evil. Time for thought — prayer — renewal of faith and strength.

5. Should you escape, be thankful, and give God the glory (Psalm 94:18; Psalm 116:1-8).

6. Let Jerusalem come into your mind. There will be no "slippery places," etc.

(W. Forsyth, M. A.)

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KJV: When I thought to know this, it was too painful for me;

WEB: When I tried to understand this, it was too painful for me;