Even if you don’t have a sentimental bone in your body, I’m betting the diamond, flower and chocolate industries have gotten you thinking about Valentine’s Day this Saturday.
Truth be told, while heart-shaped pendants carrying precious stones are beautiful, I will be happy with a rose or 2. It is actually the chocolate my husband won’t want to forget.
Rather than dreaming of romance, I’m instead finding myself wanting to be sure certain people in my life are feeling loved. Like my 100 year old grandmother, who holds her chin high, but spends her days feeling lonely in her nursing home. Or my parents, who have made me feel loved on countless Valentine’s Days. Or my college kids, who feel a little to far away recently, or my 5th grade son, who is more excited than then most, because he is experiencing his first official crush, just in time for the big day.
Loving others comes so much easier to me when I remember that I am loved. Loved in a much deeper, more real way than I can begin to grasp. It is God’s promise of His love for me that compels me to love others.
I never grow tired of the way Zephaniah describes God’s love…
“The Lord your God is with you, He is mighty to save.
He will take great delight in you. He will quiet you with his love.
He will rejoice over you with singing.” Zephaniah 3:17
As a Shepherd, it may feel like someone always needs your reassurance, your support, and your love. But as we take hold of the truth of the matchless love God has for us, we will have an ample supply of love for others.
How are you experiencing God's love in fresh ways? Have you discovered any ways to help your small group ladies experience the love of God?
How am I experiencing God's love in fresh ways? I guess primarily through relationship with God, myself, and others. I was sick last week and I felt loved by God through other people caring. Reading his word helps me feel loved. Prayer and journalling does too. I think I mostly experience his love through relationship. As far as helping the ladies in Bible study feel loved by God, focusing on what they care about and following up on that (prayer requests shared) is one way I communicate God's love to them. Sharing scriptures that are meaningful and just encouraging them to experience God themselves in their time with him.
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