Pastor and author F. B. Meyer once confided to a friend that he felt welcome in any home in England except his own. His loveless marriage was a source of deep heartache. Yet Meyer believed that he, by his aching soul, was being prepared to give love and strength to others, and especially to his wife at the end of her days. He wrote these words to her:

If then your future life should need
A strength my love can only gain
Through suffering – or my heart be freed
Only by sorrow from some stain,
Then you shall give, and I will take
This crown of fire for Love’s dear sake.

Perhaps you also feel unloved. If so, don’t try to find love by befriending this world (James 4:4-5). Rather, give yourself to knowing and loving God. “He gives more grace” (v. 6).

Tags: F. B. Meyer, love