by Dean Linnens
I was reflecting on the celebration of Valentine’s Day and what it meant to me and probably most people. The thought that came to mind was love and appreciation for those in my life: spouse, family, and friends. Then I thought of how I could express my love and appreciation to them. In today’s world we think of cards, gifts, emotions of all kinds and any other senses we can conjure up by our own understanding.
During my prayer with God, He brought 1 Corinthians 13, known as the love chapter. He reminded me in verse 4 – 7:
4 Love is very patient and kind, never jealous or envious, never boastful or proud, 5 never haughty or selfish or rude. Love does not demand its own way. It is not irritable or touchy. It does not hold grudges and will hardly even notice when others do it wrong. 6 It is never glad about injustice, but rejoices whenever truth wins out. 7 If you love someone, you will be loyal to him no matter what the cost. You will always believe in him, always expect the best of him, and always stand your ground in defending him.
I was so moved by the definition of love from His wonderful word. I then had to ask myself, “Do I have the kind of love in my heart for Jesus, wife, family and friends that is described here in these passages?”
Lord, my prayer is that I can take your word and fully apply it to my life. That I strive to have the love you want me to have. I desire to be a vessel of your light to demonstrate this love you have shown me.
Praise you Father for your wonderful plan of true love.
Amen