Lights in which God regards us.
The words intimate that there are various aspects in which the Divine Father looks at his human children, and they may suggest reciprocal views on our part.
I. LIGHTS IN WHICH GOD REGARDS US.
1. As those to whom he is nearly related. Egypt in her hour of obedience has become "my people," i.e. closely connected with God, and having, therefore, serious claims upon him. God does regard his own as those who are most closely, most intimately, most tenderly related to him, standing in such close relation that they may confidently reckon on the continuance of his kindness, on the protection and interposition of his strong arm.
2. As those who are the product of his Divine energy. "Assyria the work of my hands." We who are trusting and rejoicing in him and walking in his truth are frequently to remind ourselves that we are not the product of our own wisdom and effort, but are "his workmanship created in Christ Jesus" (Ephesians 2:10; and see 1 Corinthians 3:9; 2 Corinthians 5:5). God has expended on us Divine thought, Divine love, Divine sorrow, Divine patience, Divine discipline.
3. As those in whom he finds a Divine delight. "Israel mine inheritance." In Israel, when that people was faithful to his rule, God found his portion, his inheritance. In us, when we are attentive to his voice, responsive to his love, obedient to his commands, submissive to his will, he finds a Divine satisfaction (John 15:11).
4. As those on whom he can confer blessedness. "Whom the Lord shall bless;" "Whom God blesses, they are blessed indeed." Theirs is not mere physical excitement, or temporary gratification, or dubious delight, but true, abiding, elevating joy.
II. RECIPROCAL VIEWS WE SHOULD TAKE OF HIM. We should consider God:
1. As One to whom we are most intimately related more closely, indeed, than to any human kindred.
2. As One to whom we owe everything we are, as well as everything we have.
3. As that One in whom, in whose friendship, service, presence, we find (and hope to find) our true and lasting heritage.—C.
HOMILIES BY R. TUCK