How To Celebrate the Love Month If You’re Not In Love

Valentines is right around the corner, and everyone has a difference of opinion about it.

For new couples, it’s a holiday of intrigue and being excited about new love, roses, and romance. For seasoned or married couples, it’s a holiday that is either something they look forward to, or something they dread trying to figure out what to do differently this year, again, and the stress of not getting it right. For singles, it might be a holiday they wish wasn’t on the calendar, because it’s merely a reminder of their lack of companionship. For the newly separated or divorced spouse, it’s a holiday that may be a painful reminder of a love and relationship lost, and magnify their sense of loneliness.

I dare say, I bet if I took a survey, most people wouldn’t be upset if Valentines never happened again. I think I would actually fall into that category of the majority.  It either puts a lot of pressure on men and women alike to meet the love/gift expectations of someone else, or it brings heartache to those longing to have a special Valentine.

But if you think about it, Valentines is really about love in general – not couples or specific relationships, and Christ loves us all in a way no human could ever do. Valentines isn’t just for lovers, is it is for those who love others. The truth is, we are all a special Valentine in God’s eyes, but sometimes we neglect to focus on the One who loved us first. When we forget how much we are loved, we might also forget how much we are called to show love to others.

In my Proverbs 31 Encouragement for Today devotion today, I talked about this concept of God’s love, and how His love is even sweeter, stronger and more unconditional than a mother’s love for her own children. I shared how I used to feel when I would sing my babies to sleep, overcome with love and adoration and protection for my little ones. But even though many years have passed since my children were babies, I still feel those same feelings towards them. I don’t sing them to sleep anymore obviously, but the powerful love song in my heart for them is just as sweet as it was way back then.

As we approach Valentines day next weekend, what if we approached this concept of the ‘love holiday’ with a whole new perspective this year? What if we focused on who we could show love to, rather than just who we are or are not in love with? What if we used this holiday to share the love of Christ with someone? Or even give the the gift of our time, instead of a gift bought from the store?

My key verse is today’s Proverbs devotion was from Zephaniah 3:17 which says, “For the LORD your God is living among you. He is a mighty savior. He will take delight in you with gladness. With his love, he will calm all your fears. He will rejoice over you with joyful songs.” (NLT)  I loved how this verse remind us our God sings over us, just as a mama sings over her child, and that is the sweetest long we’ll ever hear in our spiritual ears.

As promised in today’s devotion, I am hosting a special Valentine’s giveaway with an gift you can enjoy and also share with someone who needs to discover God’s love song over their life. I’ll be giving away two copies of this popular and powerful worship CD to one lucky winner, packed with songs about God’s love that will inspire and change the heart.

What better way to spend Valentines day than filling our hearts with the love songs of God’s love and asking Him to let us be His hands and feet to show others that love as well? If you ask me, that’s what a holiday for love is all about.

To enter the giveaway, leave a comment sharing one way you could reach out to someone and be His hands and feet this month. If you win the CD, you can follow up by giving them your extra copy!

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Track Listing:

Disc: 1

  1. God Of Wonders – Mac Powell
  2. I Could Sing Of Your Love Forever – Sonicflood
  3. Shout To The Lord – Matt Redman
  4. Breathe – Christy Nockels
  5. Lord I Lift Your Name On High – Sonicflood
  6. Agnus Dei – Charlie Hall
  7. Forever – Chris Tomlin
  8. Did You Feel The Mountains Tremble? – Matt Redman
  9. Above All – Rebecca St. James
  10. Here I Am To Worship – Tim Hughes
  11. The Heart Of Worship – Matt Redman

 

Disc: 2

  1. Open The Eyes Of My Heart – Sonicflood
  2. Better Is One Day – Charlie Hall
  3. You Are Worthy Of My Praise – Charlie Hall
  4. We Fall Down – Passion
  5. Lord, You Have My Heart – Delirious?
  6. Come, Now Is The Time To Worship – Brian Doerksen
  7. Jesus, Lover Of My Soul – Stuart Townend
  8. America – Chris Tomlin
  9. Every Move I Make – Fusebox
  10. Shout To The North – Delirious?
  11. Hungry – Kathryn Scott
  12. I Can Only Imagine – Rita Springer

 

 

 

 

 

 

71 Comments

  1. Lynda on Wednesday, February 3, 2016 at 7:01 am

    One thing I can do is a simple act of kindness… such do something for them like make a meal for a busy mom friend, or take a older widower friend out to lunch or dinner… etc.. Thanks for the great devotion!



  2. Tricia Roberts on Wednesday, February 3, 2016 at 7:06 am

    One way to be the hands and feet of Jesus is to pray for those in my world. And share a smile with those I meet. Also helping those who need help- carrying groceries, taking a meal, and running errands.



  3. Sandra on Wednesday, February 3, 2016 at 7:11 am

    Hello, Thanks for your words of encouragement about Love, It is always a great joy to show and give love to some one else. One way to reach out to others is to show them your unconditional support, understanding and friendship. Let them know you are there to listen, pray and assist them. Just by letting them know, they can count on you is important in reaching out to others.



  4. Em on Wednesday, February 3, 2016 at 7:32 am

    I’m going on a “date” with my two girlfriends – one is single and the other won’t be able to see her bf on Valentine’s Day.



  5. Melanie on Wednesday, February 3, 2016 at 7:40 am

    I am planning on sharing His love by visiting the nursing home with the children from church. We are going to sing and hand out Christian Valentine’s to the residents there. I pray that we “shine” for God as we joyfully go through the hallways singing. Thank you for your devotion on God’s love. That’s what I want to focus on this month.



  6. tim on Wednesday, February 3, 2016 at 7:52 am

    I have an older brother who is in his early fifties and is struggling with depression. He is shutting everyone out of his life. I am trying to reach out to him, but he is refusing my help. In the past, I have encouraged him to pray, but he refuses. He returned the rosary beads and rosary booklet I gave him. I don’t want to give up. I will share God’s love by continuing to reach out to him, even if it is just to spend time with him and sit with him. I want him to see how good God is, and to realize that he cares about and loves my brother.



    • Tracie on Wednesday, February 3, 2016 at 9:42 am

      Praying for your brother Tim. Your gift of unconditional love and time is priceless to your brother, even if he doesn’t realize it right now. God is using you in his life and I hope soon you will see the fruits of your efforts!



  7. Jenn on Wednesday, February 3, 2016 at 7:54 am

    Showing unconditional love to those around is a great gift not easily given in today’s world. I want to focus on that this month.



  8. Kathy on Wednesday, February 3, 2016 at 7:56 am

    Thank you for your beautiful message. It is a great reminder for us to remember God’s love, and to remember to show love to others even if it’s not a significant other. Your words are comforting and inspiring.



  9. Laura on Wednesday, February 3, 2016 at 8:06 am

    So many hurting families out there to show the love of Jesus to. For valentines, I would bake them some goodies, like homemade bread and cinnamon rolls. Just because.



  10. Kristen on Wednesday, February 3, 2016 at 8:06 am

    I can be more attentive to the needs of others. Step in and pray with them and over them in times of need. Call and check on people I know are struggling, celebrating with people who have something to celebrate, etc.. Just being aware of what is going on in the lives of others.



  11. Elaine Segstro on Wednesday, February 3, 2016 at 8:12 am

    Often I take for granted the love I share with my husband. I know separated/divorced people and single people for whom this must a very difficult time. I pray that I may reach out to them in a tangible way so that they know they are loved and valued.



  12. Graceanna on Wednesday, February 3, 2016 at 8:15 am

    I can be the hand sand feet of Jesus by bringing roses to church on the 14th for the single ladies to show them that they are loved.



    • Tracie on Wednesday, February 3, 2016 at 9:53 am

      Great idea Graceanna! Especially since Valentines is on a Sunday this year. 🙂



  13. Suzanne on Wednesday, February 3, 2016 at 8:22 am

    I have a friend who is struggling to understand God. I hope to be a chain in her life that pulls her to the Lord. I have been praying for her and her family. Their past experiences regarding the church were hurtful and raw so I am hoping to show them love through my actions, prayers and through the way I speak. Not only am I trying, wanting and deciding to be Jesus’s hands and feet with her and everyone I see, I am trying to be his instrument of love, using the gifts that He has given me to help. Please pray for me that I can stand strong in God, my rock!



    • Tracie on Wednesday, February 3, 2016 at 9:54 am

      Praying for your friend Suzanne, and for you as He uses as a witness for Jesus.!



  14. Linda on Wednesday, February 3, 2016 at 8:29 am

    I can be the hands and feet of Jesus to my family by spending time with them without the phone or computer in my hand! I can also help my mother with chores that she is no longer able to do herself! Right now my mission field is my home and family!



  15. Jennifer on Wednesday, February 3, 2016 at 8:33 am

    I am learning more and more that having a proper view of God’s love really affects our relationship with Him. Learning more about this is one of my goals this month!



  16. Joy Marsh on Wednesday, February 3, 2016 at 8:41 am

    One way I can be His hands and feet is to always show kindness to everyone, old and young, sick and well, and rich or poor. I always like to smile at everyone I meet. You never know what kind of day they are having or what is going on in their life but by just smiling you can lift their spirits.



  17. Ashley S. on Wednesday, February 3, 2016 at 8:43 am

    This month, our small group is going to make and serve a dinner for struggling families in our community.



  18. Jessica Dann on Wednesday, February 3, 2016 at 8:50 am

    I try to bring encouragement to those that I work with. I often leave notes for them of encouragement. I know how much it would mean to me if someone did that for me. My family also will bake bread for our neighbors… trying to share the love of Jesus. I desire to teach my children compassion and to think of others and there needs not just our own.



  19. Susan Ruffa on Wednesday, February 3, 2016 at 8:51 am

    One Valentines Day I am hosting a singles party- we can all love on each other as God loves us!



    • Tracie on Wednesday, February 3, 2016 at 9:55 am

      Ooohhh that sounds fun! What a blessing the attendees will enjoy as a result of your willingness to reach out and show love and attention to them.



  20. Martha on Wednesday, February 3, 2016 at 9:02 am

    Thank you. Have wanted to talk with the grandkids about Valentine ‘s day, especially my 14 year old. We will talk, we will make some choices, and we will share love.



  21. Pam Crosby on Wednesday, February 3, 2016 at 9:06 am

    If I won the give away I would give the CD to a new friend I have met at my church. She is homeless and lives in her car that she parks in the forested area on our church property. She has a CD player in her car. I think this is a wonderful way to remind her of God’s love for her.



    • Tracie on Wednesday, February 3, 2016 at 9:56 am

      That breaks my heart for your new friend, but how lucky she is to have someone who cares about her so much! Definitely an amazing way to be the hands of feet of Jesus to someone who needs to know they are loved and thought of.



  22. Pam R on Wednesday, February 3, 2016 at 9:06 am

    This will be a difficult Valentines Day this year for me as the love of my physical life passed away on April 23, 2015. It has been a long hard road since then. And I just wanted to ingnore that Feb was here and I didn’t even want to think about it until I read your Encouragement for Today. Wondering if God had abandoned or rejected me made me realize that I have thought and felt that. But being reminded made me think about God’s love and reminding myself of His love as a mother loves her babies and it helped me remember that fact. Even if the tears still fall I know that our heavely Father is with me and loves me. Thank You
    Pam R



    • Tracie on Wednesday, February 3, 2016 at 9:59 am

      Pam, tears fall for me just reading your comment. Im so sorry for your loss, but so blessed to know God used the devotion to lift your spirits today and remind you are loved by God. He will never leave or forsake you! Praying for you, and hope that Valentines is a day that you not only show love to others, but a day where people love on you big time!



  23. Judy Baldwin on Wednesday, February 3, 2016 at 9:07 am

    I am director of Women’s Ministries at my local church. Our ladies group gathers together and prepares handmade valentines for “My Golden Valentine ” project organized by one of our local Christian radio stations. These cards are distributed to residents in nursing homes and assisted living facilities in our area.



  24. Sherri J on Wednesday, February 3, 2016 at 9:13 am

    My daughter and I are working on Valentine’s Day cards for the elderly in the nursing home. I know they sometimes feel lonely and I’m hoping we can cheer them up.



    • Tracie on Wednesday, February 3, 2016 at 10:00 am

      So true Sherri – that is a wonderful calling to minister to the elderly. Thank you for your faithfulness to reach out to the lonely!



  25. Denise G on Wednesday, February 3, 2016 at 9:23 am

    There are so many amazing and wonderful ways of showing someone love being Jesus’ hands and feet being written here today. I’m so encouraged by each of them, what a blessing to read today’s devotion and now your blog Tracy. Thank you!!
    I’m going to simply just be His Love today with each person I encounter, I need to practice this more right in my own home. So today I’m going to simply love my husband, children, people the Lord puts in my path with gentleness, kindness, patience, forgiveness, I plan to do something for each person… Not sure what yet, but I want to Love upon each person and it is my prayer as I do they see Jesus loving them.
    He is the potter I am the clay… Lord, help me to simply Love others. In Jesus Name, Amen.



  26. Dot on Wednesday, February 3, 2016 at 9:27 am

    You forgot to mention widows . . . It is a time of ache, but only at times since this was my husbands formal proposal to me. I have been reaching out to all 5 of my children (only two local) through text messages or otherwise, and telling them in different way they are loved. They know this “holiday” and the special meaning it had. I am also, looking for widows to reach out to. It must be challenging in a different way for them. Thank you for caring enough to write this. I appreciate that.



    • Tracie on Wednesday, February 3, 2016 at 10:03 am

      Dot, you are so right, I didn’t specifically mention widows, although essentially they do fall into the ‘singles’ category. Yet thank you for pointing that out and bringing it up. And thank you for reminding me and others how difficult it is for people who have lost their loved one. That is probably one of the hardest situations to be in at this time of year, especially if it held special meaning. Praying God’s peace and blessing fill your heart this Valentines day and that God showers you with love through the people in your life!



      • Dot on Thursday, February 4, 2016 at 10:24 am

        Thank you, Tracie. I really appreciate you reaching out in love. Thank you for praying for me, and others as well.



  27. Beth Braswell on Wednesday, February 3, 2016 at 9:31 am

    I think the best way to show God’s love is the live a God like life and try to be an example of Christian kindness. I am hopeful that this example will “open the door” for some unbelievers and soften their hearts to the word of the Lord.



  28. Adrienne on Wednesday, February 3, 2016 at 9:43 am

    I’m there for my sister and brother in law who are on hard times and had to move back in with my parents who are also having a hard time. I tell my sister that she can come over any time with her kids who my kids love to play with their cousins. I offer to pay her for babysitting as well which she really appreciates since they need the money and she tells me and my husband to use the opportunity to go on a date. Everyone benefits in this situation. My parents get a break, my sister gets a break and gets to relax somewhere else and my husband and I get to visit family and date.



  29. Jennifer Gearheart on Wednesday, February 3, 2016 at 9:45 am

    I am doing my best this month to use words of encouragement especially with my children. February is going to be a hard, since I lost my Dad a year ago on Feb. 18. I am going to suggest to them that we reach out to the heart patients at the hospital for Valentines Day. It will help us more than they will realize and help us remember my Dad in a special way.



    • Tracie on Wednesday, February 3, 2016 at 10:04 am

      That is a beautiful unique idea! So many patients will be blessed by your time and feel loved by someone they dont even know.



  30. Sandy on Wednesday, February 3, 2016 at 9:50 am

    Thanks so much for your blog and the comments of so many others. My mother and father both passed away in December. I want to reach out to our lonely seniors in nursing homes and the ones that need a friend vvhelp me be more thankful Lord. I love you.



  31. Linda on Wednesday, February 3, 2016 at 9:55 am

    This month, I want to help my granddaughter continue her study to have her First Communion. Her oldest brother went through the class at church, the next brother wants nothing to do with it. She missed the class with the kids her age, so the Pastor at their church has given her the book to complete. I am helping her with the lessons. My daughter and son-in-law will help if asked, but they are always busy. I’m so disappointed that my daughter does not see the importance of this. I’m praying for them.



  32. Halona Lee Luna on Wednesday, February 3, 2016 at 9:56 am

    I tried to show God’s love by sending notes to my friends and family just because and celebrating life events.



  33. April on Wednesday, February 3, 2016 at 10:04 am

    One thing I could do for someone is to make him/her special by sharing the love of God. By letting him/her fell the love of God for us. By staying in his/her side and make them fell loved. Sharing the love of Christ for us is one of the amazing thing you can give to someone coz there is no greater love from the Love of Christ for us.



  34. Janice on Wednesday, February 3, 2016 at 10:20 am

    One thing I can do is to take my mother-in-law out for an evening. She is a widow and lives alone. I know she would love to go out and enjoy an nice dinner or movie



  35. Valerie on Wednesday, February 3, 2016 at 10:26 am

    Send Valentine love notes to encourage friends kids etc



  36. Susan C on Wednesday, February 3, 2016 at 10:34 am

    Today I’m reaching out to a friend I used to be very close to, but we are estranged. She suddenly ceased to be friendly toward me and never explained what the issue was. I’ve learned that she had a cancer diagnosis and have been praying for her. I’ll send a card today even though I fear being rejected again.



  37. Rachel A on Wednesday, February 3, 2016 at 10:50 am

    Restore a broken relationship with my son and my husband. To bring joy and love back into our times together. To be the hands and feet of Jesus at my place of work and to show love to those around me.



  38. Angela on Wednesday, February 3, 2016 at 10:51 am

    This week, I’m reaching out and helping a military spouse who is pregnant, who isn’t necessarily my “type” of friend, but in whom I can see a need for friendship and well, help. Her husband is away for a couple of months, and I have arranged to help her out in his absence.



  39. Peggy Clement on Wednesday, February 3, 2016 at 11:09 am

    If I would win the CD I would give a copy to my sister who is going through a rough time right now.



  40. Joy R. on Wednesday, February 3, 2016 at 11:30 am

    I would reach out to my teenage daughter. She is 15 and never really got to know her dad since he passed away whenever she was 12. Some holidays are harder for her than others. Also, she loves music!! Thanks for the opportunity to win!



  41. Michele on Wednesday, February 3, 2016 at 11:45 am

    it’s amazing what a mea or home-baked goodie can do to lift the spirits of those around us. I listen closely to conversations to find out likes and dislikes. so when birthdays come up, or difficult times , I make something with their preferences in mind. Their soul gets fed because someone took the time to listen to them as individuals and physically they enjoy a food made with love. it truly says ” you are worthy”.



  42. Kirsten on Wednesday, February 3, 2016 at 12:11 pm

    HI. Enjoyed your blog about Gods love.One way I am being His hands and feet is to give people rides to do errands and bring neighbors children to church.



  43. Anne Lewis on Wednesday, February 3, 2016 at 1:21 pm

    One way is to send cards of encouragement to those hurting, drop off a meal, share an encouraging book or offer to watch their children to give them a break.



  44. Christa on Wednesday, February 3, 2016 at 1:36 pm

    I really needed your words this morning and they spoke to my heart. We just had new neighbors move in and it is a young couple from another state with two young daughters and I made a banana bread and introduced myself and my husband blew snow, 7 inches, off their sidewalk as her husband is still in Indiana. I am trying to reach out all month to show love.



  45. Renee on Wednesday, February 3, 2016 at 2:41 pm

    To love others you can go out into community and feed the hungry. reach out to others who seem to be overlooked, God loves us all the same! stay humble and see the good in people, show mercy as our Lord shows us everyday. God Bless (and always remember there is power in prayer!!!)



  46. Elsie on Wednesday, February 3, 2016 at 2:42 pm

    I have have been having a regular morning prayer time praying for so many that need Jesus. Lot’s of them need His healing touch and some need financial help etc. I like to send encouraging e-mails with verses like the one in today’s February 3rd
    devtional. I copied this verse in my book of special verses to send to other’s. I also send real cards through the mail. We are to love one another as it tells us in scripture.



  47. Kathy on Wednesday, February 3, 2016 at 2:54 pm

    The songs of faith always lifts my heart and draws me back to my Lord when there are so many distractions in life. I feel that music can minister to a hungry heart, seeking more from life than the physical comforts. Through my prayers and love to others, I hope my message can be received as a way to bring joy and peace to those around me, especially my loved ones. Thank you for your encouraging words to make melody in my heart to the Lord.



  48. Julie Sunne on Wednesday, February 3, 2016 at 3:39 pm

    Definitely need to be more intentional about church members who are now homebound. It’s easy to overlook them, but I need to show them they are still loved and worthy of our time. The extra CD would go to my dear old friend who recently found her home is permanently in the memory care unit of our local nursing home.



  49. Kellie Metzker on Wednesday, February 3, 2016 at 3:59 pm

    As my single daughter struggles with being a single mom, she often wonders why, is she unlovable?
    Of course she isn’t so I help her to have time to understand it is not what everyone, or anyone thinks about her, it is what HE knows her to be.
    I am there for her and her son to help in all ways, even those she won’t ask for help with.
    I would love to have this CD to share with her and show her she is loved by He who is important.



  50. Lori A. on Wednesday, February 3, 2016 at 4:06 pm

    Make a valentine’s meal or sweets for a widow.



  51. Holly on Wednesday, February 3, 2016 at 7:53 pm

    had thought I could invite my neighbor (widow) over for dinner on/around Valentine’s day, may or may not be a “special” meal, but at least she would not be alone. Now just have to follow up and see if she has plans with her children &if so, just find another day. The music would be a big encouragement to me.



  52. Geralyn Miller on Wednesday, February 3, 2016 at 8:14 pm

    I could reach out to a lady from my church who seems to need a friend and so do i so it would be helping me too.



  53. alisa on Wednesday, February 3, 2016 at 9:03 pm

    Doing something nice for family and friends just because and with no strings attached. i like to give flowers-right now there are some pretty bulbs in pots at our local stores-they are so pretty and are a reminder that spring and flowers are on the way!



  54. Pamela Burke on Wednesday, February 3, 2016 at 9:39 pm

    One thing I can do is share my experience, strength and hope with someone else who is struggling with mental illness and/or alcoholism/addiction.



  55. Veniece on Thursday, February 4, 2016 at 2:29 am

    Great devotional! I could call persons to encourage them, send them inspiring text messages and remind them of God’s unconditional love for us.



  56. Miranda B. on Thursday, February 4, 2016 at 8:13 am

    I will remember to treat all with extra kindness and send an encouraging card to a friend I know is struggling with this season in her life.



  57. Joyce J on Thursday, February 4, 2016 at 11:32 am

    Thinking about others and how I can make them feel special is a wonderful way to celebrate this “holiday”. Thank you for the reminder that I need to take the focus off myself and move it to showing the love of Christ to others. I think I will send an encouraging card to a friend or two who might need a pick-me-up.



  58. Rita on Friday, February 5, 2016 at 11:29 am

    I am a retired teacher who substitutes now. I try to be sensitive & listen to kids when they voice problems in their families. I tell them I will pray for them. I will also begin to try to listen for ways I might also take action to help them.



  59. Dawnielle on Saturday, February 6, 2016 at 11:53 am

    I can continue to invite women to our “Boundaries” study our women’s group is doing.



  60. Tami on Saturday, February 6, 2016 at 11:24 pm

    I’m making prayer beads for my Aunt that is having relationship problems with her son and his family. I hope to send it to her this week with words of love and encourage.



  61. karla on Saturday, February 13, 2016 at 11:34 pm

    Thank you for this great post. Too often valentines is focused on marital and dating relationships. It’s really about everyone; kids, friends, God. It’s time we all change our perspective- me included. I sure need it this year…



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Tracie Miles is a bestselling author and the Director of COMPEL Training with Proverbs 31 Ministries.  She helps women grow stronger in their faith, pursue the life of purpose God designed them for and live a life of peace, joy and happiness despite their circumstances.

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