This chapter is one of the most obscure in Scripture, though more of i probably was understood by those for whose use it was first intended than by us now. Swift messengers are sent by water to a nation marke by Providence, and measured out, trodden under foot. God's people ar trampled on; but whoever thinks to swallow them up, finds they are cas down, yet not deserted, not destroyed. All the dwellers on earth mus watch the motions of the Divine Providence, and wait upon the directions of the Divine will. God gives assurance to his prophet, an by him to be given to his people. Zion is his rest for ever, and he will look after it. He will suit to their case the comforts an refreshments he provides for them; they will be acceptable, becaus seasonable. He will reckon with his and their enemies; and as God' people are protected at all seasons of the year, so their enemies ar exposed at all seasons. A tribute of praise should be brought to God from all this. What is offered to God, must be offered in the way he has appointed; and we may expect him to meet us where he records his name. Thus shall the nations of the earth be convinced that Jehovah is the God, and Israel is his people, and shall unite in presentin spiritual sacrifices to his glory. Happy are those who take warning by his judgment on others, and hasten to join him and his people. Whateve land or people may be intended, we are here taught not to think tha God takes no care of his church, and has no respect to the affairs of men, because he permits the wicked to triumph for a season. He has wis reasons for so doing, which we cannot now understand, but which wil appear at the great day of his coming, when he will bring every wor into judgment, and reward every man according to his works __________________________________________________________________

Original Hebrew