"It is of infinite importance that we live for the best things. It is not enough to be a Christian; many Christians make but little of their life, choose but inferior things. Nothing is worthwhile which is not eternal, which will not permanently enrich our character, which will not make the world better, sweeter, happier, and which we cannot carry with us into the afterlife. "It may be that these simple chapters will make a little clearer to some earnest readers the true meaning of life, and start in some hearts the desire to live for the things that are worthy." James Russell Miller was a popular Christian author, Editorial Superintendent of the Presbyterian Board of Publication, and pastor of several churches in Pennsylvania and Illinois. He was the General field Agent for the United States Christian Commission, an organization established by the Young Men"s Christian Association after the First Battle of Bull Run. Miller authored nearly 100 books and articles.