November 8

"A friend loveth at all times, and a brother is born for adversity."—Proverbs 17:17.

BETWEEN friends there will be constant helpfulness and unstinted service. "Onwards, then!" wrote Moltke once to his brother Fritz, "and God grant that our ways may run so near that from time to time we may clasp hands."

How much Jonathan did for David, planning and carrying out all sorts of expedients! How much Jesus did for the Twelve! How much Paul did for his friends, and how they repaid him to the uttermost! Phæbe, a succourer of many, and of mine own self: Epaphroditus, my brother and fellow-worker, and fellow-soldier, and minister to my need.

There are a host of ways in which I can declare my friendliness to my friend. A grasp of the hand will do it, or a trembling word of sympathy, or a little love-gift. I can hasten to take his part when others misunderstand him. I can face real inconveniences, and make real sacrifices, for his sake. I can pray for him, personally, fervently, perseveringly, pleadingly. I can commend Christ to him, and can draw him nearer the country of light and love. "You know the trysting-place," James Gilmour said to his comrade, "the right-hand side?"

Let me see that my affection is not a mere emotion of my heart. It should shine from my eyes. It should set my hands and feet to work. It should prompt my lips to utter healing and helpful words. It should send me to the throne with cries to God that He will keep the life which is so dear to me.