Valentine’s Day is around the corner, and while it isn’t a holiday rooted in Christian traditions, it is a day to celebrate one of the greatest virtues: love.
For Valentine’s Day this year, we want to look at the ways in which the Lord has told us to give and accept love, straight from the Bible itself.
My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” John 15:12-13
As we see horrible acts of violence, as we fall victim to lies and deceit, and as we face judgement from our peers, it can be very difficult to continue loving freely.
Despite the bad in the world, it is important to remember that He is the final judge. We are not called to pick and choose who gets into heaven or hell, therefore we cannot pick and choose with whom we share God’s love (the love He gave us). We can only lead by example; therefore we must follow His example–to love unconditionally.
(Read more on the importance of bearing fruit.)
Take delight in the Lord, and He will give you the desires of your heart.” Psalm 37:4
This verse is a great Valentine’s Day reminder for those struggling with loneliness. Instead of wallowing in solitude, remember that He is with you. You are never alone. Rejoice in the Lord, and trust in His plan. If you shift your focus onto Him, you may gain some understanding about the path He has chosen for you. He loves you. He is there. He will fulfill the desires of your heart. Trust in Him.
I loved you at your darkest.” Romans 5:8
For some, accepting love can be difficult. Highly sensitive individuals are all too aware of their frequent missteps, and feel guilt in the face of love. Remember, we are all human. We all sin.
You may have fallen into some troubling times, but God still loves you. We were all born in sin, but He, in His perfection, loved us anyway.
We love because he first loved us.” 1 John 4:19
This might be the best Valentine’s Day reminder the Bible provides. If you have someone special to celebrate this day with, it is important to remember that the love you are giving comes from God.
We could never know love if God had not loved us first. He showed us love when sent His only son to die for our sins. He showed us love when He created us. It is because of God that we are alive, and that we get to experience the incredible gift of love. Do not hold it back! He has given it to you so that you may share it with others.
Share God’s Love
This Valentine’s Day, Doulos Partners wants to continue to share God’s love across the world. Please help us expand the kingdom of heaven by donating today!
