the poor and ignorant and vile in preference to others1, and by converting them to himself through the instrumentality of the weakest means k. Apparent discouragements therefore may rather operate to increase our expectations of more effectual aid ; since the weaker we are in ourselves, the more will Christ's strength be perfected in our weakness1. Instead of pleading our unfitness and imbecility as reasons for declining the path of duty, we should rather glory in, our unfitness, " that the power of Christ may rest upon usm."]
Curious as the description of the persons is, it is not more so than the representation of,
II. Their journey —
Many there have been, and infinitely more shall there hereafter be, even " a multitude that no man can number," who shall be brought to Zion. But how shall they come? Their journey is here described,
1. In its commencement —
" Weeping and supplication" well become those who are " turning from the power of Satan unto God." How can they reflect on their former bondage without the deepest humilia- tion, or without crying mightily to God for pardon and deliverance ? How can they stir one step towards Zion, and not be overwhelmed with admiring and adoring thoughts of God's goodness to them, and entreating that the good work which he has begun may be carried on and perfected in their souls? The more ardent their desire is after God, the more will weeping and prayer abound in their experience11.]
2. In its progress —
[As the journey from Babylon to Judea was both weari- some and dangerous, especially for persons circumstanced as the Jews were in their return to Zion, so the Christian's path lies through many difficulties and dangers. But God pro- mises him the things he so much needs; refreshing consolation, and unerring direction.
There are times when the " souls of God's people are dis- couraged by reason of the way0." Their trials and temptations overwhelm their spirit; and they would " utterly fail," if not succoured by seasonable communications of grace and peace. But God has provided a Comforter for them, even the Holy Ghost, whom he will send into their drooping and desponding souls, and by whose agency he will revive and strengthen
« 1 Cor. i. 26—29. k 2 Cor. iv. 7. ' 2 Cor. xii. 9.
m 2 Cor. xii. 10. " Zech. xii. 10. with Jer. 1. 4, 5.
0 Numb. xxi. 4. Ps. cvii. 4, .r>.