ARE WE FAITHFUL?

There is neither holy or royal cities that have been or are faithful to their trust, because God does not dwell in them. Impurity may shine like silver, and the wine that is mixed with water may still have the color of wine.

Those people and nations have a great deal to answer for, that do not help the oppressed, but oppress them even more. Men may do much by outward restraints; but only God works effectually by the influences of His Spirit, as a Spirit of Judgment.

Sin is the worst captivity, the worst slavery we could ever be in. The redemption by the righteousness and death of Christ, and by His powerful grace, is what is fully meant here. Utter ruin is threatened.

The Jews should become as a tree when blasted by heat; as a garden without water, which in those hot countries would soon be burned up. It looks like there are many nations and cities today that are being blasted by the very same heat. Thus shall they be that trust in idols, or in an arm of flesh.

Even the strong man shall be as tow, something that is drawn, pulled or allow themselves to be lead; not only soon broken, and pulled to pieces, but easily catching fire. When the sinner has made himself as tow and stubble, and God makes himself as a consuming fire, what can prevent the utter ruin of the sinner? Only by turning to Christ and accepting Him, truly believeing in His every word, and forsaking our sinful life, can the sinner be kept from utter ruin.

God's Blessing to each of you,

LJG/rECj