Proverbs 8:17 I love them that love me; and those that seek me early shall find me. I. EXPLAIN THE LOVE OF WISDOM, AND SHOW THE SENTIMENTS AND DISPOSITIONS THAT ARE IMPORTED IN IT. The affections and passions of the human nature are the moving springs which set our active powers at work. Various are the methods by which the objects of affection are introduced into the mind. Some wholly by the senses, some by reflection, inquiry, comparing things, and forming general notions of them. What is imported in the love of wisdom is — 1. A high esteem of its superior excellency as the result of mature consideration. 2. That we should desire it above all things. This Solomon proposeth as a qualification and means of attaining wisdom. 3. Love naturally showeth itself in the complacency which the mind taketh in the enjoyment of, or even in meditating upon, the beloved objects. II. HOW IT CONTRIBUTETH TO OUR OBTAINING WISDOM. 1. In ordinary human affairs we see that desire putteth men upon that labour and diligence which are the ordinary means of success. 2. The love of wisdom is a disposition highly pleasing to God, and to it He hath made gracious promises. We must conceive of the Supreme Being as a lover of virtue and goodness, of everything which is truly amiable on the account of moral excellence; and if it be so, He hath complacency in those of mankind whose affections are placed on the same thing which is His delight. We have, therefore, the greatest encouragements and advantages for attaining to wisdom, and we ought to use all diligence in humble and affectionate concurrence with Him who worketh in us. (J. Abernethy, M. A.) Parallel Verses KJV: I love them that love me; and those that seek me early shall find me.WEB: I love those who love me. Those who seek me diligently will find me. |
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