The Worldly Man's Portion
J. Burns, D. D. Psalm 17:14-15 From men which are your hand, O LORD, from men of the world, which have their portion in this life… The world is at total enmity with God. Its spirit, maxims, and pursuits are at utter variance with the laws and spirit of God. I. DESCRIBE THE CHARACTER. Among the signs and marks is — 1. Unregeneracy. 2. They are distinguished for worldly principles. 3. Their maxims are worldly. 4. They are distinguished by their associations; 5. By the unvarying tenor of their pursuits; 6. By their worldly affections and delights. II. THE PORTION THE WORLD CONFERS UPON THEM. They do not serve the world for nought. The chief reason why it does not satisfy is — 1. Because it is unsuitable. The ethereal mind must have ethereal enjoyments. The soul was made for God and spiritual things. 2. This portion is only a present one. 3. It is uncertain. 4. It is a ruinous portion. If a man will make the world his portion he cannot have Christ's salvation, God's favour, or eternal life. (J. Burns, D. D.) Parallel Verses KJV: From men which are thy hand, O LORD, from men of the world, which have their portion in this life, and whose belly thou fillest with thy hid treasure: they are full of children, and leave the rest of their substance to their babes. WEB: from men by your hand, Yahweh, from men of the world, whose portion is in this life. You fill the belly of your cherished ones. Your sons have plenty, and they store up wealth for their children.