As a lifelong single person so far, it’s an understatement to say that Valentine’s Day can be a source of sadness. After moving past the days of receiving Fun Dip and paper valentines from everyone in my elementary school class, it became a little harder each year to get excited about a holiday that celebrates a type of love I’ve never had.
Instead of spending the dreaded V-Day wallowing in self-pity (although I’m learning to give myself the space to lament when it’s needed), I have tried to make a habit of spending the day with my eyes fixed on my First Love. I know some people find the “Jesus is my boyfriend” concept kind of cringy, but there is truth in this sentiment that singles can take comfort in. After all, what other God refers to His people as His bride?
My best line of defense against the grief, loneliness, or envy that can accompany singleness is the knowledge that I am fully known and deeply loved by the God who wove me into being. The reality is that the very best human love I can experience is a shadow compared to the love of my Savior.
In all the ways that people may fail me (and I fail them), Jesus never does.
Jesus doesn’t hold a grudge.
Jesus doesn’t keep score.
Jesus doesn’t count the days.
Jesus doesn’t ignore the phone.
Jesus doesn’t withhold His words.
Jesus doesn’t withdraw when He’s hurt.
Jesus doesn’t whisper to His friends.
Jesus doesn’t shake His head in shame.
Jesus doesn’t look away.
Jesus calls me by name.
Jesus takes me by the hand.
Jesus carries me when I’m weak.
Jesus holds me when I’m sad.
Jesus wipes away my tears.
Jesus listens to my fears.
Jesus invites me to the party.
Jesus sits down at my table.
Jesus fights for me when I fall.
Jesus answers when I call.
Jesus is there when I can’t see Him.
Jesus is there when I can’t feel Him.
Jesus waits for me when I’m far.
Jesus is my best friend.
Jesus wants my heart.
Jesus wants our hearts, sisters! Regardless of your relationship status on February 14, make a point to have a date with the Lord who loves you. Light a candle, pour a cup of tea, put on your favorite movie, go for a walk, or do some other activity that brings life to your soul, and invite Him to join you.
He’ll never say no.
So whether you’ve had a ring on your finger for decades, you’re in the throes of fresh heartbreak or loss, or you had to pay for your own prom ticket, if you are a child of God then — no matter what your emotions or social media feed may tell you — this fact remains true:
You are beloved.
XOXO,
Kati
P.S. If you’re not single, I encourage you to take time to check in on your single people throughout the day! It’s always helpful to be reminded that we’re not forgotten on a day when we often feel invisible. A simple “I love you” speaks volumes.
Further Resources:
If you’re someone who struggles with Valentine’s Day blues, here are some passages of Scripture I encourage you to meditate on throughout the day:
Psalm 139
Jeremiah 31:1–14
Hosea 2:14–20
1 John 4:7–21
Revelation 19:7–9
In addition, here are some of my favorite songs to listen to when the loneliness is hitting especially hard (or when I just want to sing aloud about my God’s amazing love!)
How to Be Yours by Chris Renzema
Evergreen by Amanda Lindsey Cook
Runaway by Jess Ray
Even At My Worst by Blanca
Priceless (The Film Ballad) by For King & Country
ABOUT OUR BLOGGER
Kati Lynn Davis grew up in Chester County and returned to the area after a brief stay on the other side of Pennsylvania to earn her Bachelor’s Degree in English Writing from the University of Pittsburgh. She currently works as a Library Specialist and earns a living mostly by reading children’s books. She’s pretty sure she’s an Enneagram 4 but is constantly having an identity crisis over it, so thankfully she’s learning to root her sense of self in Jesus. A few of Kati's favorite subjects to write about are social media, mental health, and films, and she especially loves to explore these topics through the lens of faith.
IF:2022 is a two-day event where women all over the world gather together, get equipped, and discover the next step in their calling: to go and make disciples. The last IF:Gathering reached women in 144 different countries and 6500 different locations. We had over 200 Willowdale Women and friends get inspired by some of the most influential Christian speakers! Click Here to hear Founder Jennie Allen's vision for 2022. This year’s theme is living with resiliency instead of fragility (1 Peter 1:13-16 MSG).
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