A Different Kind of Valentine’s Gift

Here's a little something to say HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY!

I wrote this article years ago, but it's still a message I try to share every time I speak. And it's a great subject to ponder on Valentine's Day because it's about something we all too often forget...

A Different Kind of Valentine’s Gift

While Valentine’s Day typically evokes images of candy hearts, roses, cupids, and­­—of course—chocolate-style gifts, I’d like to talk about the one person most of us forget to give a Valentine to.

Ourselves.

Funny thought? Maybe. But if we look at the two greatest commands in the Bible we read, "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength. The second is this: Love your neighbor as yourself." (Mark 12:30-31)

Right there in the pages of Scripture we’re instructed by God to love ourselves. So how do we do that?

In Mark 12, the Word shares four ways we’re to love God: with our heart, soul, mind, and strength. They’re also ways to love ourselves. Here are some ideas to get you started:

In your emotions (heart): Get information from your feelings instead of ignoring them, listen to your heart. Then talk about what you hear with God. Ask Him what He says. He has so much good to say about you.

In your spirit (soul): Hang out with God and listen to His words of love about you. Get outside and enjoy nature. Listen to praise music, a child praying, or a mountain stream.

In your mind: Feed it with healthy things. Turn off the TV and computer. Read a good book. Play a board game. Share a giggle with a child.

And in your body (strength): Rest. Yes, really, a good 8 hours of sleep will do your body wonders. Exercise. Eat well.

This list is just for starters. Think about the things that relax you, that make your heart smile. Then this Valentine’s Day, I hope you’ll add yourself to your gift list and make time to do something that fills you up.

A wise counselor once told me that taking care of yourself is the best gift you can give to others. And to God.

Daddy,

You are love and You have given Your perfect love to us. Help us experience You and share Your love with others as we love ourselves. Make us lie down in green pastures to rest, lead us to listen beside quiet waters, restore our souls. Guide us in paths of righteousness for Your name's sake. May we glorify You by enjoying you forever. We love you, Daddy. Thank You for first loving us. Amen.