The reality is, the closer you get to God the less you’ll look for other things to fill your needs and, when you completely let God’s love in...
02/14/2018 .The Girlfriend’s Guide to Surviving Valentine’s Day
With so much social pressure and focus on Valentine’s Day, it’s easy to feel lonely or like there’s something missing in your life if you’re not in a relationship. If you’re feeling this way, you’re not alone. I want to remind you all that you don’t need a significant other in your life to experience love! First, we need to recognize and hold on to the fact that God’s love for us will fill any void in our lives. Nothing on this list will be able to compare or replace that. But, in addition to God and our family, what are some other ways we can experience connection on Valentine’s Day, a day the world dedicates to love?
- Love your girlfriends – Show some love to your girlfriends and invite them over to make dinner together. You can also plan to go out to dinner somewhere. Who says Valentine’s Day is just for couples?
- Love your family - If you have kids, what a perfect excuse to shower some extra love on them and make them feel special! When’s the last time you told your kids all the things you love about them? If you don’t have kids, spend some time with your parents or siblings and let them know how much you appreciate them.
- Love your neighbor - Who said passing out valentines is only for elementary school kids? Why not write some kind notes or make some treats and share them with your co-workers or neighbors. When you give the gift of love, you’ll often find yourself receiving more love in return!
- Love yourself – Self-care is also important to your own mental and physical health. Show yourself some love and get a massage, get your nails done, or do something that you enjoy that allows you to reflect and rest. I notice that it is in these times of rest and quiet that I can really hear God’s voice and recognize the love he has put in my life.
- Love your community - Need a place to go this Valentine’s Day? Do you want to be surrounded by a group of women who will love on you and encourage you this week? Attend Girl Talk this Wednesday night! Seeking out opportunities and groups that love others will also add another layer of love in your life. Sign up for the 20s/30s Girl Talk here.
- Love in Action - Go out and volunteer somewhere. Giving back is the ultimate expression of love. How can you put your love in action? Pay it forward by paying for someone’s drink or food behind you in line; sign up to volunteer at the food pantry or local food distribution center; call someone you know is in need of some love this week and spend time with them and pray with them. These little acts of love often go a long way.
The reality is, the closer you get to God the less you’ll look for other things to fill your needs and, when you completely let God’s love in, you will naturally be able to pour out love on others! So, don’t wait to love while you’re waiting for Mr. Right! The Bible says in 1 Corinthians 13 that “Love is patient and love is kind,” so use this season of waiting and this Valentine’s Day to shower kindness and love on yourself and others.
What are you going to do to start experiencing love today?