‏ Ezekiel 27

* The merchandise of Tyre. (1-25) Its fall and ruin. (26-36)

1-25 Those who live at ease are to be lamented, if they are not

prepared for trouble. Let none reckon themselves beautified, any

further than they are sanctified. The account of the trade of

Tyre intimates, that God's eye is upon men when employed in

worldly business. Not only when at church, praying and hearing,

but when in markets and fairs, buying and selling. In all our

dealings we should keep a conscience void of offence. God, as

the common Father of mankind, makes one country abound in one

commodity, and another in another, serviceable to the necessity

or to the comfort and ornament of human life. See what a

blessing trade and merchandise are to mankind, when followed in

the fear of God. Besides necessaries, an abundance of things are

made valuable only by custom; yet God allows us to use them. But

when riches increase, men are apt to set their hearts upon them,

and forget the Lord, who gives power to get wealth. 26-36 The most mighty and magnificent kingdoms and states,

sooner or later, come down. Those who make creatures their

confidence, and rest their hopes upon them, will fall with them:

happy are those who have the God of Jacob for their Help, and

whose hope is in the Lord their God, who lives for ever. Those

who engage in trade should learn to conduct their business

according to God's word. Those who possess wealth should

remember they are the Lord's stewards, and should use his goods

in doing good to all. Let us seek first the kingdom of God and

his righteousness.