The Prosperity of the Wicked

September 25, 2008

Lar,

In The Art of Divine Contentment, Thomas Watson comments on the temptation to become discontent when faced with the prosperity of the wicked. His second argument against such discontentment reads,

“To see the wicked flourish is matter rather of pity than envy; it is all the heaven they must have; ‘woe to you that are rich, for you have received your consolation’ (Luke 6:24). Hence it was that David made it his solemn prayer, ‘deliver me from the wicked, from men of the world, which have their portion in this life, and whose belly thou fillest with thy hid treasure (Psalm 17:15). The world (I believe) are David’s litany; from men of the world, which have their portion in this life, ‘good Lord, deliver me.’

When the wicked have eaten of their dainty dishes, there comes in a sad reckoning which will spoil all. The world is first musical and then tragical; if you would have a man fry and blaze in hell, let him have enough of the fat of the earth. O remember, for every sand of mercy that runs out of the wicked, God puts a drop of wrath into his vial!…

So I say, do you envy the wicked? alas their prosperity is like Haman’s banquet before execution. If a man were to be hanged, would one envy to see him walk to the gallows through pleasant fields and fine galleries, or to see him go up the ladder in clothes of gold? The wicked may flourish in their bravery a while; but when they flourish as the grass, ‘ it is, that they shall be destroyed for ever; (Psalm 92:7), the proud grass shall be mown down. Whatever a sinner enjoys, he hath a curse with it, (Mal. 2:2) and shall we envy? What if poisoned bread be given the dogs? The long furrows in the backs of the godly have a seed of blessing in them, when the table of the wicked becomes a snare, and their honour their halter.”

Strong words, huh? But good words. Encouraging and convicting words actually. It leads me to wonder how many preachers out there are speaking like this? Such boldness is needed…at least once in a while.

Thankful for strong words,
Joe

Posted by Joe | Filed Under Quotes, Seeking Him 

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