THE EVER PRESENT FRIEND.
Reading edition
“Lo! I am with you always, even unto the end of the world.”
I’ve a Friend who will not leave me, Ever walking by my side; Other friends too often grieve me, Coldly smile, or harshly chide. But the Friend who dwelleth near me, Is my Father—Guard—and Guide; Ah! ’tis He alone can bear me Safely over sorrow’s tide. All the world may think me lonely, Pitying eyes upon me bend; But, with this companion only, Can I need another friend? Early in the cheerful morning, Though I seem to walk alone, He, the proud and lofty scorning, Walks with me, his own—his own! Or, when evening darkens o’er me, Solitary though I seem, Hope’s bright visions glow before me, While of heavenly joys I dream. Nearer, dearer than a brother, Is my kind Almighty Friend; Surely then, I need no other, While he will my steps attend.