Proverbs 3:17 Her ways are ways of pleasantness, and all her paths are peace. Most proverbial expressions will admit of some particular exceptions, and the plain meaning of this one is, that it is the natural tendency of religion to make men peaceful and happy. I. THE KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE OF RELIGION HATH A MIGHTY EFFECT TO REMOVE THE PRINCIPAL CAUSES OF DISQUIETUDE. If the mind be easy and cheerful, it is not of essential consequence what our outward circumstances may be. 1. Religion removes doubt and uncertainty. The knowledge and experience of religion sets a man in a good measure free from anxieties, allays the ferment in his breast, and restores an agreeable composure to the mind. How pleasant is the assent which the mind gives to the truth, when it has the ready concurrence of the will, and the firm support of personal experience! 2. Religion removes the sense of guilt. Men attempt by various ways to relieve themselves of uneasy thoughts, but religion alone frees from guilt and its fears. 3. Religion removes the restlessness and turbulency of unsanctified passions. It strikes at the root of our corruptions, and forbids them rule and tyrannise in the heart. II. THE KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE OF RELIGION ARE ATTENDED WITH POSITIVE JOYS AND PLEASURES. 1. The discoveries of religion afford the highest entertainment to the understanding. 2. Its hopes and comforts possess the heart. What a blessing is peace of conscience! And the sense of God's favour; and a firm faith in Divine Providence; and communion with God; and the hope of eternal life! There is a solid satisfaction in the temper and conduct religion recommends; in the duties of devotion and worship. (S. Stennett, D.D.) Parallel Verses KJV: Her ways are ways of pleasantness, and all her paths are peace.WEB: Her ways are ways of pleasantness. All her paths are peace. |
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