a thought for valentine's day

I haven't been single in a long time for Valentine's Day - I think I have had a valentine for at least the past 4 years. I've dated a handful of people and definitely had crushes around Valentine's Day, honestly just to say that "I'm with someone." Let's just say, I haven't made the greatest choices when it comes to my love life, but I have learned so much in the past couple of months about what a relationship with Jesus at the center is supposed to look like. And let me tell you, that probably doesn't come with giving your heart away to anyone who simply gives you attention. That's a hard lesson to learn for some, and I'm right there with ya!

It is so beautiful to me that I get to experience this February 14th without a valentine. This year, I love Valentine's Day because I get to give a little extra love to all the people in my life and celebrate our friendship. I mean, just think about all the amazing relationships you have in your life! Friends, your parents, roommates, siblings, teachers, mentors, leaders, people who look up to you - the list goes on and on!

It's so much better to look at all of the incredible relationships you have in your life right now then to focus on the one that you might not have at this very moment. 

I truly look forward to meeting someone one day and being in relationship with them. There is so much I could say about this, but if I could tell you one thing it's this - when you are running full speed toward God, your first love, you are gonna find yourself running alongside fellow believers who are hungry for the Word and all in for Jesus. And if it's God's will for your life, you definitely will meet the right person along one of those people - someone on fire for the King. 

There's so much joy in being single and loving people well! And there's so much joy in honoring the Lord in relationship with someone else!

To the person who has a broken heart - I'm sorry. I hope you are reminded daily that you are so special and that you're Heavenly Father loves you so much. Our God heals, and He is able to heal your heart if you let Him. There is so much joy coming, and even now there is beauty in your brokenness.

To all my friends who are in a relationship - There is so much beauty in honoring the Lord in relationship with someone else. You are so loved by your Heavenly Father. Keep Him your number one, always and forever. I hope you have the greatest day ever with your person! 

To all my single friends - You are so loved by your Heavenly Father. There is so much beauty in this season of your life, and there are so many people who love you dearly. I hope you have the greatest day ever with the people you love and who love you!

Jesus, you're still my first love. You're still my only one.

xoxo