Encouragement

As Christ Loves Us, A Valentine's Message

by Vernita Simmons
02/13/21
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Valentine's day will be here soon and all across the globe people are coming up with creative ways to do something special for their spouse. Should we reserve this exceptional moment only for those who are married or dating? It’s a time set aside for such a purpose, but why not use each day to show others how much we adore and appreciate them? Everybody needs to know someone loves them.

Jesus is our perfect example because in Ephesians 5:1-2 He encourages us to; Therefore, be imitators of God as beloved children. ² And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God. We love because he first loved us. (1 John 4:19, ESV). The Lord’s the master designer of love. He created men and women to become one in love. He even showed selfless love to everybody when He sacrificed His life for humanity. Jesus Christ didn’t leave anybody behind. Here are some everyday ideas to ignite a passion to love anyone, as Christ loves us.

For No Other Reason–Our words and actions are powerful, they make a statement while leaving an imprint. Leave love notes for your child, friends, spouse, even those you find difficult to love. It’s a sweet way to thank them for being in your life. It could be a simple reminder you are thinking about them while reminding them of their good qualities.

Make the extra Effort–Go out of your way to do something out of the ordinary for people. You can help the children with their homework, even read them a bedtime story. Assist with cleaning the house and making sure your spouse has some alone time. Surprise someone with a home-cooked meal. Smile, be extra good and patient to that difficult customer. 

Love the Unlovable–Loving people does not come easy for everyone. Some humans express their version of love in anger, contempt, and bitterness. They’ve never seen a genuine example of what it is to cherish another person. You can show them by blessing them with acts of grace, though you believe they don’t deserve it. Whether it’s your boss who has given you a hard time. It may be a neighbor who criticizes or harasses you. Maybe this is a member at your church who is not Christ-like. You do not have to like anyone to offer them compassion and kindness. Love the unlovable any time we get an opportunity.

A Residue of God’s Love–In this present climate and civil unrest, we can be God’s hands and feet as examples of His extravagant love. Even the hardest-hearted person needs to know somebody loves them. I often say we may have to love the darkness out of them by infesting them with love. How does this look? Well, it is through forgiveness when you want to get even. It comes from holding somebody accountable, but not lying, manipulating, or making someone feel guilty. Beloved, never use social media to badmouth anyone. Leave behind a residue of God’s love everywhere our feet trod.

Pray - without ceasing for humanity, and the whole wide world.
We may be the only living walking Bible that touches a soul. Let our actions and words prove how much we love by loving how Jesus loves us. Let me know in the comments below how you will infest this world with love.