[1] This is important in our own country, where there are no
ferocious animals lying in wait to destroy; but it was
peculiarly important in Judæa and the countries adjoining
it. Many parts of these are said to have been infested with
beasts of prey, which frequently rushed from their places
of concealment upon the passing traveller, and rendered
even the public roads exceedingly dangerous. Hence the
prophet says of the way to heaven through Christ, that "no
lion shall be there, nor any ravenous beast go up thereon;
it shall not be found there." Not that we are to conclude
that the redeemed have no foes to combat, and no
difficulties to surmount in their course. Like the
Israelites returning from Babylon, they have to pass
through an enemy's country in their journey to Zion. But He
who has redeemed them accompanies them in their pilgrimage;
and though they are called to struggle and fight, He gives
them the victory, and renders their path as safe as though
there were no dangers near it, nor any to hurt and
destroy.--_Bradley._