January 23

There is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother. —Proverbs 18:24.

HAVE I taken Christ as my Saviour, and so, as my dearest friend? Do I find comfort in the fact that he is the loving, sympathizing, unfailing friend of his people? And do I give him the only return that he asks—the full confidence and affection of a loving and grateful heart? Am I truly thankful for the inestimable blessings which this Friend of friends gave his life to purchase for me? Does my life manifest my love to him?

The Christian should never be dejected under affliction, because he has God for his friend, and father, and everlasting portion.—SPENCER.

He who has found the Saviour, has found something more than a wise counselor, a moral remedy, or a good physician. He has found an all-sufficient, never-failing, and ever-sympathizing friend.—HAMILTON.

When President Edwards came to die, after bidding all his relatives farewell, his last words were, "And now where is Jesus of Nazareth, my true and never-failing friend?" and so saying he sweetly fell asleep. Jesus is a friend, ever near and ever true; the best friend for earth or heaven.—FOSTER.

Weak though we are, Christ still is near, To lead, console, defend;

In all our sorrow, sin, and fear, Our all-sufficient friend.

In highest heaven, or lowliest sod, The surest, truest friend is God!