CLAY CENTER – On Valentine’s Day Americans are expected to spend over 20 billion dollars on cards, flowers, chocolates, date nights and more. It is advertised as the most romantic day of the year. For some, it is a day looked forward to, while for others, it feels like Cupid’s arrow flew right on by. Let me share with you five positive Valentine’s Day truths.

1. There is good in your relationship status, whether you are single or married. If you are single and not dating, it is easy to feel like there is something wrong with you while others have girlfriends, boyfriends or are getting married. If you are married and going through a very difficult period, it is easy to feel discouraged when you see happily married couples. In situations like these God teaches us that we can live with hope, “I will rejoice and be glad in your steadfast love, because you have seen my affliction; you have known the distress of my soul.” (Psalm 31:7) This Valentine’s Day, no matter your relationship situation, know that God sees you, therefore, choose to find a reason to rejoice in Him.

2. Don’t sit around and wait to get some love, rise up and give some. It is so easy to fall into the “woe is me” trap, hoping that your spouse or a special someone will come along and fulfill all your romantic hopes and dreams. Do you realize that others probably feel the same way? Jesus said, “… as you wish that others would do to you, do so to them.” (Luke 6:31) This Valentine’s Day, go give some love! Instead of waiting for something to come to you, go to others. Arm yourself with some notes, flowers or chocolates and go be a blessing to someone. 

3. Understand the real purpose in dating. Breaking news! It is not just for an experience. A Pew Research poll found that 42% of single Americans are looking for some kind of romance. Millions will be going out on dates this Valentine’s Day, hoping to find some. 

Those who date in order to find elusive romantic feelings or sexual hookups are self-centered and missing the point. Dating is a method to help search for a lifelong marriage partner. The institution of marriage was established by our Creator. During history’s first marriage He said, “Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife. And they shall become one flesh.” (Genesis 2:24) On Valentine’s Day, do not go on a date just to fulfill some romantic desire, go with a vision for something more noble – marriage.

4. You were made for marriage and a family. The U.S. Census Bureau reported that in 1970 71% of all households were married couples. However, in 2022 that number was just 47%. Additionally, the CDC says the birth rate is the lowest in our history, at 1.62 births per woman. We are below the ability to replace our population. How did this happen? By lowering the value of marriage and family, our Creator’s plan. 

For some, you have the gift of singleness, but for most God wants you step into His beautiful design of marriage and family. This Valentine’s Day, respond to God’s most holy plan.

5. Follow God’s ways. It is hard, but the most rewarding way. The Bible says, “Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights …” (James 1:17) Singleness, marriage and family are all gifts from God, but they come with great challenges. Do not let the abuse or heartbreak from others, nor your own foolish choices keep you from all that God has in store. Jesus died and rose again to take your sinfulness upon Himself. He has made a way for you. 

This Valentine’s Day, turn from your sins and place your full trust in Christ alone. Love Him and live for Him with all your heart.

A prayer for you – Lord God, open our eyes to see the plans you have for us. Let us admit how we have turned from your ways. Today, help us to turn back to you. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Clint Decker is president of Great Awakenings. Share comments at cdecker@greatawakenings.org and follow his blog at clintdecker.blogspot.com.