xix. 22. _And the Lord shall smite Egypt, &c._
+I. The benevolent design of God in chastisement.+ God smites in
order to heal. Scripture teaches throughout that God's dealings with
men are--1. _Not capricious._ 2. _Not indiscriminate._ 3. _Not
unjust._ He does not impose burdens that cannot be borne, nor exact
obedience which man cannot render, nor select favourites for
preference or victims for vengeance, without any regard to the
relations existing between man and Himself. Contrary to all this,
God's smiting is that--(1) of a _Rescuer,_ who inflicts blows upon
the chains that He may set us free; (2) of a _Physician,_ who in
mercy probes the wound that He may heal it; (3) of a _Father,_ who
uses the rod for the salutary purposes of correction and reformation
(H. E. I., 56-74).
+II. The conduct befitting in men when under chastisement.+ _"And
they shall return,"_ &c. This return includes--1. _Submission_
(H. E. I., 143). 2. _Entreaty for help._ (See also ver. 20.). This
involves humble confession of sin, and hearty reliance upon God
(H. E. I., 145-147). 3. _Sincerity of purpose,_ as manifested in the
fulfilment of vows. (See also verse 21.)--_William Manning._