‏ Ezekiel 29

* The desolation of Egypt. (1-16) Also a promise of mercy to

Israel. (17-21)

1-16 Worldly, carnal minds pride themselves in their property,

forgetting that whatever we have, we received it from God, and

should use it for God. Why, then, do we boast? Self is the great

idol which all the world worships, in contempt of God and his

sovereignty. God can force men out of that in which they are

most secure and easy. Such a one, and all that cleave to him,

shall perish together. Thus end men's pride, presumption, and

carnal security. The Lord is against those who do harm to his

people, and still more against those who lead them into sin.

Egypt shall be a kingdom again, but it shall be the basest of

the kingdoms; it shall have little wealth and power. History

shows the complete fulfilment of this prophecy. God, not only in

justice, but in wisdom and goodness to us, breaks the

creature-stays on which we lean, that they may be no more our

confidence. 17-21 The besiegers of Tyre obtained little plunder. But when

God employs ambitious or covetous men, he will recompense them

according to the desires of their hearts; for every man shall

have his reward. God had mercy in store for the house of Israel

soon after. The history of nations best explains ancient

prophecies. All events fulfil the Scriptures. Thus, in the

deepest scenes of adversity, the Lord sows the seed of our

future prosperity. Happy are those who desire his favour, grace,

and image; they will delight in his service, and not covet any

earthly recompence; and the blessings they have chosen shall be

sure to them for ever.