Why was Christ chosen from among the people? Let your heart answer, for those thoughts are the truest. Wasn't it so He could be our brother, sharing in the bond of human blood? Oh, what a connection exists between Christ and the believer!

The believer can say, "I have a Brother in heaven. I may be poor, but my Brother is rich and a King. Would He let me go without while He reigns? No! He loves me; He is my Brother." Treasure this thought like a necklace of diamonds around your memory. Wear it as a golden ring on your heart, and use it like the King's seal, stamping your prayers with confidence.

He is a brother born for tough times. Trust Him as such. Christ was chosen from the people so He could know our needs and empathize with us. "He was tempted in every way, just as we are, yet without sin." In all our troubles, He shares our pain. Temptation, pain, disappointment, weakness, weariness, poverty—He knows them all.

Remember this, Christian, and find comfort. No matter how hard your path, Jesus has walked it before you. Even in the dark valley of the shadow of death, His footprints are there. Wherever we go, He has been our forerunner. Every burden we carry, He has shouldered first. "His way was much rougher and darker than mine. Did Christ, my Lord, suffer, and shall I complain?" Take courage! His royal steps have marked the road, making the thorny path holy forever.