A Genuine Pursuit.

Valentine’s Day 
(noun)
1. a day when many of us have romantic dinner dates and fun places to be
2. day when most of us stay at home to eat the chocolate we purchased for ourselves while watching romcoms

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Which “definition” of Valentine’s most resonates with you? My Valentine’s Day 2021 will most likely reflect that of the second version! Actually, I can confidently say that I have never gone on a Valentine’s Day date. There are some seasons of my life where I am totally content with not having a Valentine—any other’s out there who would rather have a little Galentine’s party with the girls? However, there are other seasons where I find myself asking God, Where’s my Prince Charming? Actually, let’s be real. Usually it’s more like, Where’s my handsome, athletic, smart man, who has a good sense of humor, loves God, smells good, and will listen to Morgan Wallen songs with me on long drives?

To be fair, most of us have our "List of Perfect Attributes and Characteristics for an Ideal Partner," as well as the perfect timeline. However, some of us are just more detailed (or more vocal about it) than others. I tend to be a very particular person who knows what she wants. However, what I forget, many times, is how important it is to focus on what He, our Creator, wants for me. This year, especially, I have found myself "editing" scripture to read how I would like.

"'For I know the plans I have for you,' declares the Lord, 'plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."
-Jeremiah 29:11

If you have attended church or are familiar with the Bible, you may have heard the verse, “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future,” (Jeremiah 29:11). My time in quarantine has given me the opportunity to really self reflect. It did not take me long to realize that in many areas of life, I have been living as if “I know the plans for myself…plans to prosper ME.” Micromanaging God is dangerous, and does not breed blessing. He knows exactly what we need, every one of our steps, and the time it will take to get there. He knows better.

About two weeks ago, as I was watching Instagram stories, I came across this quote by well-known speaker, Sadie Robertson-Huff: “If God’s love isn’t enough for you, no one’s love will be enough for you.” I read it. Then I reread it. Wow. This quote reminded me of a conversation I had with my father. We were talking about the year of 2020, about who we put our trust in, and about what we rely on. It was as if God was saying, “If all you had left was me, would I be enough?”

"Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love."
-1 John 4:7-8

Whose love have I been really searching for? Love from a guy? Love from my family? Love from my friends? Even love from myself? While all these are important, the order of who we go to first for love matters more. Typically, the first person, or even thing, we go to for love sets the tone and foundation for the other relationships—both romantic and platonic—in our lives. My love for God can be reflected through my love for others and through my actions. How do you love? Does it reflect the One who loves you most?

God is good. He is constant. He has no ulterior motives. He does not need me, yet He wants me. That is true love—a genuine pursuit. After all, God IS love (1 John 4:7-8).

Happy Valentine’s—show someone His love!

Love,