Society can make it seem like genuine love is something that many seek and only few attain. Personally, I’d like to believe that’s not true. Each of us experiences love in some way. I mean, by design, humans are formed though an intimate connection between two people. Love itself must be abounding, right?
There is something in human nature that draws us to love, and to romantic love specifically. We all long for it.
Maybe it’s Genesis 2:18, which reminds us that it is not good for us to be alone. Or 1 John 4:16, which anchors us with truth that God is love. This truth, this God, Yahweh, has been my anchor in every season of life. His love is sown into every fabric of my being.
I’d like to share this overflow of love with others. In a world that sometimes lacks reciprocity in this area, I realize that the enduring, protective and soul-satisfying love I search for, I already have, unconditionally. This is something to be cherished.
I am realizing that love is all around me, though sometimes it may be hard to perceive. It’s in the little sacrifices we make for one another, placing each other before ourselves. It’s also in the precious time shared in each other’s presence, when so many other things could draw our attention.
It’s in the forgiveness of faults and the acceptance of quirks. It’s loving who you are and embracing all of who you were created to be, without limitations. The same is true when this kindness and grace is extended to others.
Genuine love is radiant. Others see it and are drawn to it. It truly is selfless, freely flowing to all willing to accept its warm embrace.
I’ve been trying to uncover the truth behind self-love and whether there is space for it within Christianity. I like to believe there is. We’re called to love God and to love others. So, why would we not be able to love ourselves?
My confidence has been challenged through intense tests of faith and mental endurance. Yet, despite the attacks I’ve faced, my confidence remains. Self-love endures. It has never left me. In the spirit of resilience, I have emerged victorious through each test because my confidence is in my identity as a child of God. It’s deeply rooted in scriptural truth that I am fearfully and wonderfully made. In this foundational truth, I find that self-love and self-acceptance are okay. The love of God is in me, and it shall not depart.
Romance is still something I hope for, but I rest assured knowing that, even in singleness, I lack nothing. This time in intimacy and solitude with my Creator is priceless.
I trust God’s timing for a relationship and marriage someday. I have faith that He can satisfy this desire exceedingly and abundantly. Until then, and always, my heart is safe and secure in his abounding, limitless love. ♡
