Have you ever given thought to the true definition of love? It is so powerful that there is not a single particular word which adequately defines it. Yet it is not so much special words as it is actions that express love. When we truly love another, taking care of that person’s needs is never a burden, as giving of oneself is the definition of caring for and loving another.

It is a blessing and a privilege to have someone to love. When we truly love, we become aware of, sensitive to, and involved in meeting that person’s reasonable needs. Dr. Laura Schlesinger says, “People don’t actually ‘grow apart’ in relationships; they simply stop taking care of each other’s needs.” It is when you stop seeing your spouse with gratitude and awe, when you stop looking for ways to make that special person happy, when you no longer seek new ways to be kind and loving to that person until their dying day that you are no longer the kind of person you yourself want to come home to.

When you have that special someone to love, it is important to focus on being a good partner. This means truly treating that person as kindly and respectfully as you would want them to treat you.

We all need the bonding of loved ones. Getting through tough times in life can make one especially self-centered when we do not have someone with whom to share our love. We should never allow ourselves to wallow in resentment or old hurts, always looking for ways to get even. Life is too short for that and it undermines productivity on every level.

Don’t be a fair-weather spouse as that is not true love. Keep your heart open to the warmth of your loved one. Be willing to go the extra mile without ever mentioning the deed, even at times when you feel you have nothing left to give. It is then that you find new and interesting ways to bless your beloved.

True love is the higher, more excellent way of behaving toward your loved ones and it is a powerful force. As you look for ways to express your love, remember that God is only a breath away. He will refresh you as you continue your love journey.       

When I think of true love, I am often reminded of the love Jesus Christ has for us; a love so pure, the Bible refers to it as agape love. This means an unconditional, unending love without measure. God is the only one who understands this kind of love, or is capable of loving on this level. It is not an earthly love, but a heavenly attribute.

When we endeavor to compare earthly love to God’s love, we reach an impasse. Nothing in this life compares to the heavenly love that God possesses. God’s love goes beyond our understanding. While He loves us even in our sin, He never loves the act of sin. He is always ready and willing to forgive us, but He cannot embrace its evil.      

God tells us to love one another. When we do, love becomes a deciding factor in our choices and the motivating power behind our actions. When we listen to love we are, in essence, listening to the voice of God.  

This Valentine’s Day, show love not only to your beloved, your friends, and your family members. Show love to another special valentine, as well. Yourself. Only by loving and treating yourself with respect are you equipped to do so unto others.

Happy Valentine’s Day

God bless

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