"Friendship halves our troubles and doubles our joys. "

- J. C. Ryle

J.C. Ryle is without question, one of the best, if not the best author on Christian living. After some discussion this week on friendship, I was delighted to find out what Bishop Ryle had to say about it when I came accross "The Best Friend". It was so refreshing to be reminded of the merrits of my friendship with Christ. It is a must read if you wish to have your eyes raised towards Heavcen's Joy. You should read it if you want to build your faith in who your friend is. You should read it if you want to see how Jesus models friendship. You should not read it if you:

1. Want sympathy because your freinds have failed you.
2. Want to feel good about how good of a freind you are.

Actually, you should read it if either of the above fits you, it will help you raise your esteem of the risen Christ and lower your esteem of yourself.

I leave with this quote:

This world is full of sorrow because it is full of sin. It is a dark place. It is a lonely place. It is a disappointing place. The brightest sunbeam in it is a friend. Friendship halves our troubles and doubles our joys.

A real friend is scarce and rare. There are many who will eat, and drink, and laugh with us in the sunshine of prosperity. There are few who will stand by us in the days of darkness, - few who will love us when we are sick, helpless, and poor, - few, above all, who will care for our souls.