Psalm 16:4 Their sorrows shall be multiplied that hasten after another god: their drink offerings of blood will I not offer… The Psalmist here introduces the subject of idolatry, and forms respecting it a worthy and decided resolution. He speaks of the misery of such as attach themselves to the worship and service of false gods. Not only shall they be subjected to calamity, but their calamities shall be manifold. This arises from two causes. The gods in whom they have placed their confidence are mere imaginary beings. And by forsaking the true God they have forfeited all the advantages which trust in Him and obedience to Him would have certainly produced. On account of the sinfulness and misery of such conduct the Psalmist determined that he should not be chargeable with it. True, we are not in danger of becoming idolaters in the literal and original sense of the word. But the substance of the crime is contained in your feeling and showing a stronger attachment to some other being than to the Supreme Being. It is of no consequence what it is to which you thus pay the homage and give the glory which are due to God alone. Idolatry is to serve the creature more than the Creator. Beware of the guilt of idolatry, and of the vengeance which impends over those who indulge in it. The Psalmist goes on to say, "The Lord is the portion of mine inheritance." This refers both to the future life and to the present, "the life that now is." In all that happens to us we will recognise the operation of His combined mercy and wisdom and faithfulness. Then our "lines will have fallen in pleasant places." But our principal concern is with our spiritual circumstances. (A. Thomson, D. D.) Parallel Verses KJV: Their sorrows shall be multiplied that hasten after another god: their drink offerings of blood will I not offer, nor take up their names into my lips. |
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