“By Love Refined Letters To A Young Bride” took me by surprise. I had heard great things about this book and was curious to read it.
The book begins just after the wedding of ‘Julie’ and her husband, the format is a series of letters spanning over the following year. All of the letters are written from the author to Julie, addressing a key point from a letter she had received from Julie, regarding her marriage. It is very interesting to see the progression of their relationship. It is filled with an effortless joy and love in the beginning of the marriage and becomes somewhat strained over the months to follow. As many of us can relate ‘life happens’ and everyday challenges, begin to crop up in their marriage.
Alice responds thoughtfully. Never does she justify being less than your best as a spouse. She calls upon scripture and the lives of the saints giving advice that always leads with love and self giving. She encourages an attitude of complete selflessness. She also encourages an admiration for your spouse, asking you to remember the great light you first saw them in. Acknowledging the gift that they are and treating them with the utmost respect.
I learned a lot from this book. Sustaining a beautiful love for your spouse throughout a life long marriage is possible with God and is a decision you make each and every day.
Originally posted 2014-08-25 02:56:33.