od's judgments on Babylon. (1-6) Carelessness and confidence
shall not prevent the evil. (7-15)
Verses 1-6: Babylon is represented under the emblem of a female in deep
distress. She was to be degraded and endure sufferings; and is
represented sitting on the ground, grinding at the handmill, the
lowest and most laborious service. God was righteous in his
vengeance, and none should interpose. The prophet exults in the
Lord of hosts, as the Redeemer and Holy One of Israel. God often
permits wicked men to prevail against his people; but those who
cruelly oppress them will be punished.
Verses 7-15: Let us beware of acting and speaking as Babylon did; of
trusting in tyranny and oppression; of boasting as to our
abilities, relying on ourselves, and ascribing success to our
own prudence and wisdom; lest we partake of her plagues. Those
in the height of prosperity, are apt to fancy themselves out of
the reach of adversity. It is also common for sinners to think
they shall be safe, because they think to be secret in wicked
ways. But their security shall be their ruin. Let us draw from
such passages as the foregoing, those lessons of humility and
trust in God which they convey. If we believe the word of God,
we may know how it will be with the righteous and the wicked to
all eternity. We may learn how to escape the wrath to come, to
glorify God, to have peace through life, hope in death, and
everlasting happiness. Let us then stand aloof from all
delusions.
od's judgments on Babylon. (1-6) Carelessness and confidence
shall not prevent the evil. (7-15)