I. The character of *' the righteous" —
In dehneating this, the generahty of persons would refer to actions only, and to those chiefly which had respect to men. But this would give a very partial and inadequate view of the subject. The truth is, that man's character is to be estimated, not so much by his actions towards men, as by the habit of his mind towards God. I mean not to say, that actions are not necessary to evince the truth and excellence of the internal principle ; for the principle that is unproductive of holy fruit, is of no value ; it is a hypocritical pretence, a mere delusion. But actions, though good in themselves, as prayers and alms- givings, may proceed from a vicious principle, and, instead of being acceptable to God, may be perfectly odious in his sight. Hence the righteous are de- scribed by characters that admit of no doubt :
1. They trust in God —
[The righteous have a view of God as ordering all things both in heaven and earth. They know, assuredly, that not even a spari'ow falls to the ground without his special permis- sion. They see that both men and devils are but as instru- ments in his hands ; and that, however imconscious they may be of any over-ruling power, they do, in fact, fulfil the will of Almighty God. Hence, whatever be done, they receive it as from God ; and whatever be devised against them, they feel themselves secure in his hands. They know that, without him, "no weapon that is formed against them can prosper ;" and that, through his gracious care, " all things shall work together for their good."
David was exposed to the most imminent dangers through the malice of Saul : but " he encouraged himself in the Lord his God," and committed all his concerns to him. So the true saint, wlioever he may be, flees to God as a sure refuge, and hides himself imder the shadow of his wings ; assured that, when so protected, no enemy can assault him, no evil find access to him.
In the grace of God, too, tney trust as well as in his provi- dence. They are well assured, that there is no hope for them in themselves, either as it respects the obtaining of reconcilia- tion with God, or the fulfilling of his holy will. On the mercy of God, therefore, and on the merits of their Sa\dour, they rely for pardon and acceptance ; and to the Lord Jesus they look for such supplies of grace, as their necessities require.