Love...

Valentine's Day is fast approaching. It's a holiday we usually don't pay much attention to. It's a bit commercial for us. But, this year I am trying to look at it in a new light. I am looking at it as a reminder of how Christians should love.

God gave us a command to love one another. "A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another." John 13:34.

Love, as they say, makes the world go 'round. :) It is how we are known as His disciples. "By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another." John 13:35.

We are to spur one another towards love..."And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds." Hebrews 10:24

We are to love one another deeply from the heart. "Now that you have purified yourselves by obeying the truth so that you have sincere love for your brothers, love one another deeply, from the heart." 1 Peter 1:22 We, at times, will have love for one another that cannot be shown for whatever reason. We are still commanded to love one another deeply from the heart. Our choice of being able to show that love may be taken, but the love that is there cannot be taken from the heart.

We are to greet one another with a kiss of love. "Greet one another with a kiss of love." 1 Peter 5:14. If you are able to do this, I suggest you do. It's a great way to show your loved ones that you love them. A kiss on the cheek for family can go a long way. Your children will carry that love with them into adulthood. It's a great Godly way to show you care.

Loving others is very important to God. And, not just loving our own family. "Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God." 1 John 4:7 Friends are addressed in this scripture, not just family. We are to love others. Period. Friends, family, and even enemies. :)

Take time this weekend and show love to others. Be kind, thoughtful, encouraging, and compassionate. Open your heart and allow love to come in and then share it with others.