If you are married, if you are engaged-eagerly anticipating that wedding day, or are currently dating, if you have any sense (at all) you will be preparing for the day when we are to show special appreciation to those we love – what day is that? Valentine’s day of course!
Love – the hallmark of a precious relationship, love which is growing deeper and deeper with each passing moment. This is a wonderful time to reflect upon those with whom we are sharing our lives and to also look for the specialness in them. Everyone knows how easy it is to take for granted the closest persons in our lives and not see the uniqueness which God has created in them. How sad for many which do not understand Psalms 139.
Ps 139:14 I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvelous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well.
One recent morning I was looking at my beautifully scratched and dented Brazilian Mahogany floor in the living room. I know what you’re thinking, beautifully scratched/dented?
Yes, you see my son plays in that area, running his trucks, cars, trains and whatever other toys or musical instruments he enjoys in that area. I leaped for joy inside as I sat there looking out the picture window watching the birds, and looking at the floor. You see, I love my son, and it brings me joy to see him confidently playing, building and learning in our home. Even unwittingly at times, were building a temple in him, a temple which is a residence for the Holy Spirit of God to dwell. He is a unique person already at the age of nine, full of love and compassion towards others, so a few dents and scratches are wonderful evidence of a life being grown and used by God. His friends come and play in that area too, which he loves, they are welcomed by him and Mom and Dad also.
I’m sure that someday when he leaves home those evidence of his life will become even more precious to us.
So how about your spouse, or betrothed? Do you see scratches and dents which make you angry? Or do you see uniqueness and special attributes which God is using and shaping to make them beautiful temples for His Spirit to dwell in? Love is such an encourager, you should use love every chance you get to build up your spouse, I assure you that God thinks of them much higher than we are able to. So we need to get His mind on the matter and love them without compromise, and without ceasing, to see the good in them and encourage them. As many widowers I’ve spent time with will tell you, the time is gone too soon, and many of the “important” things in life really didn’t matter at all. Being together, loving and caring for one another was the most important and the best thing in their minds. Here is wisdom, better to find that out now and live accordingly.
So men, buy that dress, those flowers, that special dinner for her, while you can enjoy them together (nothing wrong with some candy to share also). Ladies, be appreciative of the level of provision you spouse is working to give you. And all of us, let’s give glory to God for creating such special and marvelous treasures in earthen vessels, to have by our sides.
If you’re not in a relationship right now, you can still be an encourager to many others with the Love of God. Ask for direction from Him, you’ll be amazed at how many times the Lord will give you a lonely soul to shower His love upon. It’s a part of the great commission, the good news of Jesus Christ. Let’s be working – for the days are short and the time is at hand. You and I have been created for such a time as this!
God says to love Him with all your heart, soul, mind, and might. In Luke 10:27 Jesus added, to love your neighbor as yourself to that list. Love one another as Christ loved you, giving himself for us. Allow the Holy Spirit to give the gift of love to all those around you, through your life’s example. Be a blessing to this world, it might not repay you, but God certainly will!
Penned with the Love of God towards you,
Pastor Mark Miller
The Worship Barn Free Church
8201 Angola Road (meeting in the Dwelling Place)
Holland, Ohio
Saturdays at 6:00 pm.
Phone 419-877-1035
Email: theworshipbarn@aol.com
