July 27

"Abraham my friend." — Isaiah 41:8.

WHAT an interesting character was Abraham! He is made honorable mention of both in the Old and New Testaments—he is called by way of eminence, "The father of the faithful." There is something delightful even in the name of friendship. Let us contemplate the friendship that exists between the believer and his God.

ITS NATURE. In order to understand this, we must take two views of it.

The friendship God bears towards his people. It is gracious — it originates in his grace, and peculiarly displays it — it is divine, connected with divine things, and attended with divine communications — it is disinterested; here all the benefit is on our side, in earthly friendship it is mutual — it is watchful; our Divine Friend is continually watching over our best interests — it is inviolable; he will never betray our confidence, but will prove faithful to the last.

The friendship they bear towards God. What are its qualities? It is sincere; many make great professions of regard to us, who are insincere. Are we sincere in our attachment to the cause of God, and in our zeal for his glory? It is faithful. If we are the friends of God, we shall be faithful unto death, we shall confide in his promises, and rely on his covenant engagements. It is durable. Ah! how many profess to be the friends of God, and run well for a time, but ere long walk no more with him!

ITS ADVANTAGES. The most inestimable benefits result from it.

It confers real dignity. It is estimated an honor to claim friendship with the great and mighty of the earth; but what is this compared with the friendship of God? This ennobles the soul, and elevates the mind.

It is associated with solid pleasure. Friendship has its sweets; but how often, while we are admiring the rose, are we prickled with the thorn!

"Each pleasure has its poison too, And every sweet a snare."

It insures constant protection. With such a Friend we must be safe. He has power in his arm, and vigilance in his eye, as well as pity in his heart.

It shall be consummated in eternal happiness. Soon all the friends of God shall be exalted to the realms of glory. Oh! let it be my highest ambition to have it said of me when I am no more, "He was called the friend of God."

"How firm the saint's foundation stands! His hopes can never remove, Sustained by God's almighty hand, And sheltered in his love."