Such an exclamation escaped from the lips of Joshua, and it was the language of bitter disappointment, for Israel fled before their enemies (Jos_7:8). The same words were uttered by our adorable Lord when His soul was overwhelmed with grief in the prospect of His agonies and bloody sweat, His cross and sacrificial death (Joh_12:27). Here it is the language of one who was filled with perplexity by the dispensations of Divine Providence. Such is the case with us sometimes; our circumstances are so painful, so different from what we anticipated, that in bewilderment we exclaim, “What shall I say?” We must say--
1. That God’s dealings are very mysterious.
2. That the words of Jesus are still true, “In the world ye shall have tribulation.”
3. That some of God’s promises require strong faith to believe them.
4. That God will do just as He pleases with His own children.
5. That the trial of faith is often very severe, exceedingly painful.
6. That patience and perseverance are required under our trials.
7. That when Satan hinders, none but God can effectually help; therefore we must look to Him.
8. That however rough the road, the end will more than make up for its toils and trials, for the end shall be blessed. (James Smith.)
I shall go softly all my years
Past troubles remembered
The Revised Version has it: “I shall go softly all my years, because of the bitterness of my soul.” The marginal reading of the Revised Version is: “I shall go in solemn procession all my years because of the bitterness of my soul.” That “because of” means--since I hold in memory the bitterness of my soul. So that we may state the significance of our Scripture thus: I will walk henceforth in solemn, subdued, reverent way, remembering always and thankfully the bitterness out of which my soul has been delivered. (W. Hoyt, D. D.)
Escape from death gives a new meaning, to life
Hereafter he should walk with the step and the mien of a conqueror; or with the carefulness of a worshipper who sees at the end of his course the throne of the Most High God, and makes all his life an ascent thither. (Prof. G. A. Smith, D. D.)
Outlook in affliction
I. A wise RESOLVE. Reckless ambition is folly. Our stage of action is polluted, insecure, and vanishing. We are weak and dying. To walk in humility, self-distrust, and holy fear is wisdom.
II. ITS CAUSE. Afflictions change our views of life. They change us. Wisdom is often born out of soul-bitterness. A severe affliction should be an epoch in a man’s life. It should pluck out his follies, and make his future a more tender, gentle, lovable thing. (W. O. Lilley.)
