young man is feelingly contemplated by the inspired author. As if all his sympathy were immediately excited, he breaks forth into an inquiry of anxious solicitude, "Wherewithal shall a young man cleanse his way? By taking heed thereto, according to thy word."
1. When we consider the powerful and peculiar trials, by which the way of the young man is beset, we shall readily enter into the Psalmist's earnestness on the subject. In most cases, he eagerly escapes from the restraint of his earlier years, passing, somewhat abruptly, from the previous stage of life into manhood; and goes forth, having henceforward to discipline himself, instead of being entirely governed by others. His passions are ripening into activity; his mind is impelled to search into the reasons and foundation, of what he has hitherto received, on the testi
mony of others. The great scene of life is opening before his eager eye. If he be placed in easy circumstan