“(Love) does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful.” (1 Corinthians 13:5)
Happy early Valentine’s Day. With “the most romantic day of the year” just around the corner, I’m sure your house is brimming with love and tender moments.
No?
It would be nice to think that a day that celebrates love would leave us all in a loving spirit, but that’s just not always the case. The everyday irritations rule the day and we find ourselves planning a celebration that we don’t even feel like taking part in.
Even if you’re not treating Valentine’s Day as anything special this year, it is a good time to consider what love is and should be. Paul wrote extensively in first Corinthians about this and it should be something we keep close to our hearts.
The day-to-day life of marriage can grind down even the most tender feelings. Having a set of “rules” can help keep us focused on how we should be acting with the one we’ve chosen for the rest of our lives. For me, moving away from those pockets of irritation and annoyance that bubble up regularly when my spouse doesn’t read my mind (the nerve!) is an intentional and important habit. So is realizing that getting my own way is not nearly as loving as yielding or listening to my husband’s suggestions.
So, if today finds you fighting, loving, or stalled somewhere in between, take a breath and remember the “rules.” Don’t allow negative emotions, like resentment and irritation, to steal or obscure your love. Put aside any bad feelings and allow God to soften your heart. Your love and respect for each other will be around long after the roses and chocolates.
Happy Valentine’s Day!
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