J. C. Ryle Commenting on Matthew 2:13-23

J. C. Ryle:

Greatness and riches are a perilous possession for the soul. They know not what they seek who seek to have them. They lead men into many temptations. They are likely to fill the heart with pride, and to chain the affections down to things below. “Not many mighty, not many noble are called.” “A rich man will enter into the Kingdom of Heaven with difficulty.”

Do you envy the rich and great? Does your heart say, “Oh I that I had their place, and rank, and substance?” Beware of giving way to the feeling. The very wealth which you admire may be gradually sinking its possessor down into hell. A little more money might be your ruin. Like Herod you might run into every excess of wickedness and cruelty. “Take heed, and beware of covetousness.” “Be content with such things as you have.” (Expository Thoughts on Matthew)