31. What reproaches Moses had to bear from his people! But when the Lord would have avenged him on those who reviled him, he often used to offer himself for the people that he might save them from the divine anger. Ex. xxxii. 32. With what gentle words used he to address the people, even after he was wronged! He comforted them in their labours, consoled them by his prophetic declarations of the future, and encouraged them by his works. And though he often spoke with God, yet he was wont to address men gently and pleasantly. Worthily was he considered to stand above all men. For they could not even look on his face, Ex. xxxiv. 30. and refused to believe that his sepulchre was found. Deut. xxxiv. 6. He had captivated the minds of all the people to such an extent; that they loved him even more for his gentleness than they admired him for his deeds.