More Love

“Grace to all who love our Lord Jesus Christ with an undying love.”—Ephesians 6:24 NIV

The daughter of a pastor, Elizabeth Prentiss became a published writer while a teenager and wrote many documents to help young people. As a teacher, she developed a deep concern for the spiritual well-being of her students and felt personal joy whenever she led one of them to Christ.

But no one would have been surprised if Elizabeth had become bitter. Born in Maine in 1818, she suffered frequent health issues throughout her life. While trying to present herself positively, privately she continued to struggle with what she called a “morbidly sensitive, melancholy temperament.” Yet she found strength and meaning in her relationship with Jesus.

In 1856 during a time of grief when she had just lost two of her children, she authored a poem called, “More Love to Thee.” This was the song of her heart: “More love to Thee, O Christ.” This was her prayer “on bended knee.” It was her “earnest plea.”

She described how she once craved “earthly joy” but discovered everything she needed in Christ: “Now Thee alone I seek, give what is best.” Her circumstances didn’t seem so important. She developed a real love to be in His presence.

Years later, she published the poem, and when composer Howard Doane read her words, he was inspired to compose accompanying music. Through the resulting hymn, her message has impacted people worldwide.

May this be the cry of your heart: more love to Jesus.

Reflection Question: What can you do to show how much you love Jesus today?