The same thing happens in other areas of life. One seeks pleasure in love but soon experiences bitterness. Augustine also complains in his Confessions that he was tormented horribly in the very midst of his amorous affairs. Thus when we seize upon pleasure, it is soon covered with bitterness. Therefore, the best thing is to abide in the Word and work of God, to instruct the heart this way in how to be peaceful and content with the things that are present. If the Lord has given one a wife, one should now hold on to her and enjoy her. If you want to exceed these limits and add to this gift which you have in the present, you will get grief and sorrow instead of pleasure. One should therefore simply stick to what the Lord wills and gives. If you want joy and delight, wait to receive it from Him. As He offers it to you, accept it. “Rejoice with those who rejoice” (Rom. 12:15). Do not try to be wise and solemn in the midst of those who are rejoicing, as sanctimonious people do, who dampen the happiness of other people, which God has given. Just be sure to acknowledge that all of this comes to you from God; accept it from His hand and use it as His gift. (Luther’s Works, v.15 p.29-30)