Psalm 31:24 Be of good courage, and he shall strengthen your heart, all you that hope in the LORD. Many are almost despairing because of their trials and their temptations. But be our circumstances what they may, here is an antidote to them all. I. THE PROMISE — "He shall strengthen your heart." We have duties, many, varied, arduous. Often they are very trying; but this promise is for us. And so in our temptations. These are continually occurring, and we know not how to overcome them. Again this promise is given. But you ask, "How am I to attain this strength? Must I always go on sinning?" No, for — 1. Faith is one grand means of victory over sin. "Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lusts of the flesh." 2. Watchfulness is another help; taking care to keep away from the occasions and inducements to sin: occupation in what is good and right, storing the mind with God's truth. 3. Prayer. This must by no means be neglected, the more we pray the stronger we are. 4. In mortifying sin be careful to leave no part remaining. Cut down the tree, but not this only, pull up the roots. 5. Guard your thoughts and desires. 6. If sin has gained power over you, at once — delay not a day — in seeking to subdue it. The longer it is left the greater will be the difficulty. "Today, if ye will hear His voice," etc. But in our own strength no one is sufficient for these things; but the grace of God will help us. II. To WHOM THIS PROMISE IS MADE. — "All ye that hope in the Lord." Not the sinless, the perfect, but, etc. They are such as put all their trust and confidence in Christ. (J. Marshall, M. A.) Parallel Verses KJV: Be of good courage, and he shall strengthen your heart, all ye that hope in the LORD. |
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