Ezekiel:31

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* Verse 1-9 - The falls of others , both into sin and ruin , warn us not to be secure or high-minded . The prophet is to show an instance of one whom the king of Egypt resembled in greatness , the Assyrian , compared to a stately cedar . Those who excel others , make themselves the objects of envy ; but the blessings of the heavenly paradise are not liable to such alloy . The utmost security that any creature can give , is but like the shadow of a tree , a scanty and slender protection . But let us flee to God for protection , there we shall be safe . His hand must be owned in the rising of the great men of the earth , and we must not envy them . Though worldly people may seem to have firm prosperity , yet it only seems so . * Verse 10-18 - The king of Egypt resembled the king of Assyria in his greatness : here we see he resembles him in his pride . And he shall resemble him in his fall . His own sin brings his ruin . None of our comforts are ever lost , but what have been a thousand times forfeited . When great men fall , many fall with them , as many have fallen before them . The fall of proud men is for warning to others , to keep them humble . See how low Pharaoh lies ; and see what all his pomp and pride are come to . It is best to be a lowly tree of righteousness , yielding fruit to the glory of God , and to the good of men . The wicked man is often seen flourishing like the cedar , and spreading like the green bay tree , but he soon passes away , and his place is no more found . Let us then mark the perfect man , and behold the upright , for the end of that man is peace . **** Matthew Henry 's Commentary ****

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