December 23

Be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you reason of the hope that is in you.— 1 Peter 3:15.

AM I intelligently able, and at all suitable times willing, to give a reason for my faith as a Christian? Do I watch against that fear of man which bringeth a snare; and feel that if I loved and feared God more, I should fear the world less? Knowing that my faith and hope as a Christian rest on the surest foundation, am I ever ready to defend them against either argument, or cavils, or sneers? Do I glory in the cross of Christ?

I know men, and I tell you Jesus Christ is not a man: he is God. And his divinity once admitted, Christianity appears with the precision and clearness of algebra: it has the connectedness and unity of a science. The gospel is more than a book. It is a living thing, active, powerful, overcoming every obstacle in its way. It possesses a secret virtue of indescribable efficacy; a warmth that impresses the understanding, and softens the heart. The soul can never go astray with this book for its guide.—NAPOLEON BONAPARTE.

I'm not ashamed to own my Lord, Or to defend his cause;

Maintain the honor of his name, The glory of his cross.

Jesus, my God! I know his name; His name is all my trust;

Nor will he put my soul to shame, Nor let my hope be lost.—WATTS.