Habakkuk 1:16 Therefore they sacrifice to their net, and burn incense to their drag; because by them their portion is fat, and their meat plenteous. The over-estimate of one's capabilities and powers, and the depreciation of the capabilities and Dowers of all other people. Self-knowledge is not self-conceit. Nor is the right and diligent use of the talents with which God has entrusted us any indication of self-conceit. Illustration-The principle contained in the words, "They sacrifice unto their own net," etc. I. MEN DO THIS WHEN THEY ATTRIBUTE THEIR TEMPORAL PROSPERITY TO THEIR OWN SKILL AND ENERGY, AND NOT TO GOD. Wealth may, or may not, be a proof of skill and industry. Self-reliance is a noble quality; it is different from self-sufficiency. But we are dependent upon God. II. WHEN THEY ATTRIBUTE THE DISCOVERIES OF SCIENCE AND THE INVENTIONS THAT HAVE BENEFITED THE WORLD TO THE HUMAN INTELLECT AND NOT TO GOD. Man's discoveries are God's revelations. III. WHEN THEY ATTRIBUTE THE PROSPERITY OF A COUNTRY TO ANY OTHER SOURCE THAN TO GOD. Patriotism is a virtue. Our prosperity may be ascribed to different causes. Let us honour God; let not our pride weaken us. IV. IN THEIR TREATMENT OF GOD'S MERCIFUL REVELATION TO THE WORLD. V. WHEN THEY DEPEND FOR THE SPREAD OF GOD'S RULE ON HUMAN PLANS AND ORGANISATIONS, AND NOT ON THE BLESSING OF THE HIGHEST. "The excellency of the power is of God." Without God's presence and blessing all that we do is in vain. (James Owen.) Parallel Verses KJV: Therefore they sacrifice unto their net, and burn incense unto their drag; because by them their portion is fat, and their meat plenteous. |
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