Feelings, Love & Valentine's

posted on: 2.07.2012

Can feelings be made to order? Can you say, "self, be terribly sad right now!"
No. Feelings cannot be ordered around.

As Valentine's approaches, we might feel the pressure to be in love. We don't want to be forever alone, and this holiday sometimes makes us feel so. The fact that you may have a few friends that are dating (even when it feels like everyone is dating—not true) can also add to the pressure Valentine's brings. Of course, I won't mention the obvious media propaganda that conspires against us.

I'm here to tell you I know how you feel, I've been there myself. And as weird as it sounds, Valentine's has always been my favorite holiday (after my birthday? haha).
Valentine's is much more meaningful now that I know the love that the Bible speaks of:
Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.
—Matthew 22:37
The love the Bible speaks of is more an act of will than a mere fleeting feeling. This is why Jesus has the freedom to command us to love. It goes beyond feelings & spontaneity. Jesus wasn't particularly feeling like dying a torturous death, yet his love for us  went beyond rejection, indifference & torture. He willed to love, even unto death. This type of love is also our guarantee that God will not fall out of love for us. You certainly won't see this type of love on mainstream media!

Here are some tips for Valentine's day {encouraging} fun:

Single ladies: Go out on a date to your favorite place and plan to meet the Lord there. Afterwards, go to a Valentine's bash party with your friends and share stories about true love, the kind that doesn't give up during the tough times. If everyone seems to be doing something, I advice for you to get on board with activities for Valentine's at your church.

Couples: Take a time to share about true love stories from the Bible and what you like most about them. Share the characteristics you'd both love to reflect together. Go out and celebrate love by doing things for couples around you, whether that's having dinner with a wise married couple or helping organize an event for couples at church. Nothing builds true love like service.

18 Smiles:

  1. Your tips for single ladies and for couples are great!

    I feel like I'm in between. (If that's possible.)
    I'm newly in a courtship and we haven't even talked about Valentine's day. (We're getting to know each other and not rushing anything supremely romantic.)

    So, I'm not single, but I'm also in a very new relationship.

    Regardless of if "the guy" and I do anything, I will enjoy pouring into those around me. My friends, family, and most of all cherishing time with the One who loves like no human ever can.

    Thanks for the reminder of focus as I'm in the midst of a new relational adventure.

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  2. I love this post! I try to explain this to people all the time! I saw your comment after the link up, and it is very nice to "meet" you, as well! xoxo

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  3. Lovely post! I crossed off Valentines Day and put "God Loves Me Day" instead :)

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  4. i love this post. i have been feeling so lonely lately because i am on my own right now, but i am comfortable in my own skin and seeing that god is always with me - no matter the holiday xo

    C

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  5. Love your blog and pics!!!
    amazing!!!
    visit my blog on http://laviecestchic.blogspot.com
    xoxo Marika

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  6. I absolutely love this. It's a great message to everyone. You don't have to be lonely...!!

    Fantastic blog.

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  7. nah. i order my feelings around all the time. ;)

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  8. you hit the nail on the head. beautiful post. i love the idea of "taking God on a valentine's date". He's the perfect date, that's for sure :)

    happy valentine's day to you ;)

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  9. just came across your blog and i'm loving it! so wonderful!

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  10. Praise God for His AGAPE love. The love that is selfless and willed our Savior to endure the death of the CROSS. Oh, I thank you girl! Thank you for this. I didn't even think I needed any encouragement for my singlehood but God definitely spoke a lil something to me on your blog :).

    ♥CheChe

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  11. i am seriously in love with your blog. you are so precious!!
    your newest follower!!

    xo

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  12. Girl, you are so amazing. I love all the wisdom that flows from your post. This one is no exception. Beautiful. PS: I love that photo of you guys! :)

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  13. @Stesha Thank you so much! I'm so glad you stopped by

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  14. @♥ CheChe I'm glad God used this in your life dearest

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  15. beautiful, beautiful post! I echo everything you said.

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  16. Aw being single is not bad after reading these kind words from you, really makes my day! Got to try out this nest year! :)
    buy wow accounts

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  17. What a sweet post. So glad I found your blog today =)
    Much Love,
    L

    (allglorious-within.blogspot.com)

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