Isaiah 24:15 Why glorify you the LORD in the fires, even the name of the LORD God of Israel in the isles of the sea. "Whether ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God." What an extensive admonition is this! And yet even this does not include the whole of God's claim upon us. We are required to honour Him, not only in all we do, but in all we suffer. I. THE STATE HERE SUPPOSED. "In the fires." Stripped of metaphor, the passage supposes a state of suffering. In this state we may be found — 1. As men. "Man is born to trouble as the sparks fly upward." 2. As Christians. "Many are the afflictions of the righteous." II. THE DUTY HERE ENJOINED. "Glorify ye the Lord in the fires." The glory of God is essential or declarative. We cannot add to the former. But, "the heavens declare the glory of God." All His works praise Him. How? By the impressions and displays of His perfections; by showing us what He is, and what He deserves. Thus, Christians are appointed to "show forth the praises" — virtues — excellences — "of Him who hath called them," etc.; which is done by their language and their lives. Hence, we glorify God in our afflictions when we verbally and practically acknowledge — 1. His agency. 2. His rectitude. He is "righteous in all His ways, and holy in all His works." 3. His wisdom. 4. His goodness. 5. His power. III. THE REASONS. 1. Because you have the finest opportunity. The scene naturally awakens attention. Nothing is so impressive as the graces of a Christian in trouble. 2. The obligations you are under to the blessed God. 3. Hope should influence you. "Verily there is a reward for the righteous." (W. Jay.) Parallel Verses KJV: Wherefore glorify ye the LORD in the fires, even the name of the LORD God of Israel in the isles of the sea. |
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