1 Corinthians 10:6-13 Now these things were our examples, to the intent we should not lust after evil things, as they also lusted.… How many of us turn from the Canaan and gaze rebellious on the desert behind, and the very conduct which shocks us in the Jews of old ourselves pursue. We too murmur as they did. In every rank, in every age, are these complainers heard. The poor man meditates in moody silence on the unequal distribution of this world's goods. The rich man may be seen joyless in all his plenty. The young complain of needless restraints imposed upon them; the old, of the weakness and infirmity attendant on declining years. Painful, says the student, is the search, and difficult the perception of truth. Yes, and even the faithful may often feel despondent, and express in bitter regret their little progress in the good they seek for. Suppose, then, being faint-hearted, we come to hesitate, to rebel, to return. The murmurers of old were destroyed of the destroyer. Our ruin likewise may be slow, but if we continue in their sin, it must be sure. In your patience possess ye your souls, endeavouring so to walk, as He also walked. The fruit of the Spirit is a richer treasure than the grapes of Eschol. (F. Jackson.) Parallel Verses KJV: Now these things were our examples, to the intent we should not lust after evil things, as they also lusted. |