Happy “Love” Day!

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Happy Valentine’s Day can be a hard day for many. We all have expectations during this season of love. Sometimes things go our way and at times we are disappointed and let down.

During my single years, there were times I felt lonely and wished I would have a Valentine. I am grateful for employers that were thoughtful to surprise us with a Valentine treat. Also, I could spend time with my other single friends and we were able to bless each other with a little gift on this day. It is amazing how a card and a little chocolate treat can lift the human spirit!

I am married now, and my husband is great about asking what he can do for me. This year, I just wanted him to be home and take the weekend off work so we could be together. Meanwhile, the Lord wanted to give me more than just a weekend. We had a winter storm so my husband received two extra days off. How fun to just spend time together!

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I remember a time when I did not meet my husband’s expectations. He had bought me roses, chocolates, and had a selection of movies beautifully displayed so I would be able to see them when I walked through the door. Well, I had my hands full of groceries so when I walked through the door, I did not see anything below my chin. I walked right past it and then never went back into the foyer to see it. All his efforts missed!

However, there is one love we can always count on and it is way better than chocolate! It is the love of God. He loved us so much that he sent His only son to save us. Jesus Christ loves us, he died on a cross for us so we would have life.
“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” John 3:16

One of my favorite verses in the Bible that has always helped me to know that I am loved, is found in the book of Psalms (139:17-18)
How precious to me are your thoughts, God! How vast is the sum of them!
Were I to count them,they would outnumber the grains of sand—when I awake, I am still with you.

What a promise to cling to in knowing God is always with us. “The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.” Deuteronomy 31:8

I Corinthians 13 is known as the “love” chapter in Scripture. It is a powerful reminder of how to love and be loved. Verses 4-7 teach us that “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.”

Be encouraged that you are loved and have a purpose in life. Look to Jesus to help encourage you and strengthen you. Let Him love on you and shower you with his love.

Make plans with a friend so you do not have to be alone. Keep reminding yourself that God loves you and hold tight to His promises.

If you are able to do so, in a tangible way, you can show God’s love to someone else today by doing something kind for them.

God promises us his best! “For the Lord God is a sun and shield; the Lord bestows favor and honor; no good thing does he withhold from those whose walk is blameless.” Psalm 84:11
“And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.” II Corinthians 9:8

Keep looking to Him. Hold to His Truth. His love endures forever.

‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind’; and, ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ — Luke 10:27