Learning to Love God's Way

In the past, I hated Valentine’s Day. All it did was remind me how alone I felt, no flowers, no date, just couples shoving their lovey-dovey stuff in my face. Yeah… not fun.

This year is a little different. I do have a boyfriend. But Valentine’s Day has always felt kind of weird to me. You’re telling me people decide one day to be the best version of themselves for their person instead of doing that every day? Kinda odd if you ask me.

Anyway, I’m not here to talk trash about Valentine’s Day. I’m here to talk about how God has worked in my life, and how He’s still working.

The relationship before the one I’m in now wasn’t perfect. It left me questioning a lot of things and honestly swearing off dating altogether. I think I was a little upset with God, but looking back, that relationship happened because I thought I knew God’s timing better than He did.

Fast forward a few months later, and God opened a new door. It took time for me to trust this relationship. There were ups and downs, patience required, and a lot of prayer. I used to picture my love life like a fairytale, easy, perfect, happily ever after. But that’s not real life. Relationships are hard. I’ve learned I can’t expect perfection from someone when I’m far from perfect myself.

What God has taught me is what I should expect, the kind of love He shows us through His Word. Before college, I once saw a video of a girl going through her Bible and writing down the characteristics of love and of a godly man. I decided to do the same and pray over it. With each relationship, God taught me something new, and I kept praying over what He revealed.

This time, instead of taking things into my own hands, I waited. I prayed. And I watched how God was working, not just in my life, but in his too. I didn’t rush. I let actions, faith, and fruit speak before I said yes.

We’re long distance, and that’s hard. Sometimes all we can give each other is a listening ear instead of a hug. Right now, I’m walking through a job change and a lot of anxiety. The other night, my boyfriend prayed over me, over my anxiety, our relationship, and the people we love. That moment reminded me of prayers I’ve been praying since high school.

And that’s what this is really about.

I’m not writing this to brag, and I’m definitely not trying to make anyone who’s single feel bad. I know what it’s like to be single and wonder if God will ever answer that prayer. If that’s you, I encourage you to keep praying. Open your Bible. Learn the love God has for you, and the kind of love He wants you to give.

And if you’re in a relationship, keep going back to God together. Scripture shows us who God calls us to be and how we are meant to love.

So whether you have a Valentine this year or not, know this: where you are right now is okay. God’s love isn’t seasonal, conditional, or limited to one day. Learn how to love well, and learn the kind of love you deserve and know that God will put the pieces together at the right time.