Proverbs 14:14 The backslider in heart shall be filled with his own ways: and a good man shall be satisfied from himself. The text is not intended to deny that external circumstances have considerable influence over our happiness. The sentiment is not to be taken as describing the actual condition of society. The happiness of the great mass of mankind is dependent upon external circumstances. The question before us does not lie between the influence of outward circumstances on the one hand and Divine control on the other. The text does not assert the good man's independence of God. I. TWO GREAT PRINCIPLES OF HAPPINESS, or ingredients of which it is composed. 1. Peace of mind. Unless the mind is in a state of quietude and peace there cannot be happiness. And peace is communicated to the spirit in a direct and glorious manner through Divine influence. 2. Expectation. Looking forward to something that we possess not. II. THE SUPERIORITY OF THESE PRINCIPLES TO OUTWARD CIRCUMSTANCES. 1. God has not chosen outward circumstances as the medium through which He imparts these elements of happiness to the mind. 2. God has so ordered it in the economy of grace that man is the intelligent and voluntary agent in the application of these elements of happiness to his own case. 3. Whenever our minds are under the influence of the highest principles of happiness they are not only independent of circumstances, but actually exercise a control over them. (A. G. Fuller.) Parallel Verses KJV: The backslider in heart shall be filled with his own ways: and a good man shall be satisfied from himself.WEB: The unfaithful will be repaid for his own ways; likewise a good man will be rewarded for his ways. |
    |