Showing posts with label Friendship. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Friendship. Show all posts

Thursday, January 30, 2025

Bible Verses for Valentine's Day: Celebrating Faith and Love

Bible Verses for Valentine's Day: Celebrating Faith and Love
Bible Verses for Valentine's Day: Celebrating Faith and Love

Bible Verses for Valentine's Day: Celebrating Faith and Love

Valentine's Day is a special occasion dedicated to celebrating love and affection. While traditional gifts and romantic gestures are customary, incorporating scripture into your expressions of love can add a meaningful touch. This Valentine’s Day, consider sharing or reflecting on Bible verses that beautifully capture love as God intended it.  The Bible offers insights into what true love means, emphasizing not just romantic relationships but also the love we share with family, friends, and even our community. Here are some beautiful Bible verses for Valentine's Day that can inspire your Valentine's Day celebrations.  Each verse here is written in the NASB translation.

Love is patient, love is kind, it is not jealous; love does not brag, it is not arrogant. It does not act disgracefully, it does not seek its own benefit; it is not provoked, does not keep an account of a wrong suffered, it does not rejoice in unrighteousness, but rejoices with the truth; it keeps every confidence, it believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never fails. 1 Corinthians 13:4-8 
This passage defines love in its purest form, making it a perfect choice for Valentine’s Day. It highlights the virtues of patience and kindness, qualities vital to every healthy relationship. Sharing this verse with your spouse can remind both of you to embody these principles as you grow together.
Put me like a seal over your heart,
Like a seal on your arm.
For love is as strong as death,
Jealousy is as severe as Sheol;
Its flames are flames of fire,
The flame of the Lord.
Many waters cannot quench love,
Nor will rivers flood over it;
If a man were to give all the riches of his house for love,
It would be utterly despised. Song of Solomon 8:6-7
This poetry from Song of Solomon speaks to the intensity and strength of true love. It’s a beautiful reminder that love is powerful and enduring, making it an ideal verse to share during your Valentine’s Day celebrations.
We love, because He first loved us. 1 John 4:19
This verse underscores the foundation of all love in our lives—God’s love for us. As you celebrate Valentine's Day, reflect on how this Divine love inspires your relationships.  We should thank God for showing us how to love others, because after all, He loved us first.
With all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, being diligent to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.  Ephesians 4:2-3
This verse emphasizes the importance of humility and patience in relationships. It’s a gentle reminder that love requires effort and understanding. This Valentine's Day, consider how you can foster peace and unity in your relationships.
Do not let kindness and truth leave you;
Bind them around your neck,
Write them on the tablet of your heart.
So you will find favor and a good reputation
In the sight of God and man. Proverbs 3:3-4

Proverbs encourages us to cherish love and faithfulness. This verse is great for reflecting on the importance of commitment in relationships. Share it with your loved ones to express your dedication to nurturing your relationships with them.

YORK Dark Chocolate Peppermint Patties Hearts, Valentine's Candy Bag, 9.6 oz
This bag of YORK Dark Chocolate Peppermint Patties Hearts is available here.

Incorporating these Bible verses into your Valentine’s Day celebrations can enhance the spirit of love and gratitude that this day represents. Whether through a heartfelt card, a social media post, or a personal reflection, sharing scripture fosters a deeper connection and appreciation for love. Celebrate love with both words and actions, reminding yourself and those around you that love is a precious gift given to us by God. 

Happy Valentine’s Day!


Valentine's Day Care Package Gift Box
Valentine's Day Care Package Gift Box

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Bible Verses for Valentine's Day: Celebrating Faith and Love
Bible Verses for Valentine's Day: Celebrating Faith and Love

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40 Valentine's Day Books for Young Readers

40 Valentine's Day Books for Young Readers
40 Valentine's Day Books for Young Readers

Thursday, June 6, 2024

Steps to Restore a Broken Relationship

Steps to Restore a Broken Relationship
Steps to Restore a Broken Relationship

Steps to Restore a Broken Relationship

Have you ever experienced a broken relationship? Whether it's with a friend, family member, or romantic partner, broken relationships can bring feelings of pain, sadness, and even hopelessness. However, as faith followers, we can turn to scripture for guidance on restoring and mending these broken relationships. Here are some steps based on scripture to help in the process of restoration:

1. Humility and Forgiveness

In Matthew 6:14-15, Jesus imparts a profound lesson on forgiveness: "For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins." This scripture is a beacon of hope, reminding us of the transformative power of forgiveness in repairing a broken relationship. It's a call to let go of pride, acknowledge our own mistakes, and be ready to forgive the other person, thereby empowering us to take the first step toward restoration.

For if you forgive other people for their offenses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive other people, then your Father will not forgive your offenses.  Matthew 6:14-15

2. Open Communication

Open and honest communication is the key to rebuilding trust and understanding in a broken relationship. Proverbs 16:24 beautifully illustrates this, stating, "Gracious words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones." When we communicate with the person we are seeking to reconcile with, choosing gracious words can bring about a healing and restoration that is both encouraging and motivating.

Steps to Restore a Broken Relationship
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3. Patience and Love

Restoring a broken relationship is a journey that requires time, patience, and love. 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 reassures us, "Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres." This scripture serves as a reminder that with patience and love, we can overcome challenges and work toward reconciliation with determination and reassurance.

Steps to Restore a Broken Relationship
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4. Seek Reconciliation

Matthew 5:23-24 instructs us, "Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother or sister has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First, go and be reconciled to them; then come and offer your gift." This verse emphasizes the need to actively seek reconciliation and make amends with the person with whom we have a broken relationship.
Therefore, if you are presenting your offering at the altar, and there you remember that your brother has something against you, leave your offering there before the altar and go; first be reconciled to your brother, and then come and present your offering.  Matthew 5:23-24

5. Prayer

Finally, turning to prayer can bring comfort, guidance, and strength as we seek to restore a broken relationship. Philippians 4:6-7 encourages us, "Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."

Steps to Restore a Broken Relationship
This Philippians 4:6-7 home decor item is available here.

Restoring a broken relationship is not easy, and it's important to acknowledge the challenges that may arise. It may take time for wounds to heal, and there may be moments of frustration or doubt. But with faith, patience, and love, it is possible. By following these steps based on scripture, we can work towards reconciliation and healing in our relationships. Remember, it's a journey, and every step forward is one step closer to restoration.

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Steps to Restore a Broken Relationship
Steps to Restore a Broken Relationship

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Steps to Restore a Broken Relationship
Healing from a Broken Relationship

Tuesday, June 4, 2024

10 Powerful Ways Christians Can Encourage One Another

10 Powerful Ways Christians Can Encourage One Another
10 Powerful Ways Christians Can Encourage One Another

As Christians, we are called to uplift and support one another in our faith journey. Encouragement can be a powerful tool for renewing spirits and strengthening bonds within the community. Here are 10 powerful ways Christians can encourage one another:

Let's start with Scripture where we are instructed to encourage one another and build each other up.
Let’s hold firmly to the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful; and let’s consider how to encourage one another in love and good deeds, not abandoning our own meeting together, as is the habit of some people, but encouraging one another; and all the more as you see the day drawing near.  Hebrews 10:23-25

Therefore, encourage one another and build one another up, just as you also are doing.  1 Thessalonians 5:11

10 Powerful Ways Christians Can Encourage One Another

1. Prayer Support: One of the most impactful ways to encourage fellow believers is prayer. Praying for one another's needs and challenges can provide immense comfort and strength.
We give thanks to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, praying always for you.  Colossians 1:3
10 Powerful Ways Christians Can Encourage One Another
The Power of a Praying Woman by Stormie Omartian is available here.

 2. Acts of Kindness: Simple acts of kindness, such as offering a helping hand or a word of appreciation, can go a long way in uplifting someone's spirit and showing God's love in action.

Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility consider one another as more important than yourselves; do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others.  Philippians 2:3-4
3. Scripture Sharing: Sharing relevant and uplifting Bible verses can provide encouragement and remind us of God's promises during difficult times.  Scripture verses can be a source of strength and encouragement for someone going through a dark period in their life.
Your word is a lamp to my feet
And a light to my path.  Psalm 119:105
4. Active Listening: Taking the time to actively listen to someone's concerns and offering empathetic support can make a significant difference in their life.
The way of a fool is right in his own eyes,
But a person who listens to advice is wise.  Proverbs 12:15
5. Mentorship: Building mentorship relationships within the Christian community can provide guidance, wisdom, and encouragement, especially for those navigating challenging life seasons. While it may seem daunting to take on a mentorship role, remember that you don't have to have all the answers. Simply being there to listen and share your own experiences can be a source of great encouragement.
Be devoted to one another in brotherly love; give preference to one another in honor, not lagging behind in diligence, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord; rejoicing in hope, persevering in tribulation, devoted to prayer, contributing to the needs of the saints, practicing hospitality. 

Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse.  Romans 12:10-14
6. Celebrating Achievements: Acknowledging and celebrating each other's achievements, big or small, is not just a source of motivation and encouragement, but a source of joy and fulfillment. It's a way to share in the blessings of our fellow believers and to inspire one another to keep striving.
Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep. Romans 12:15
Building mentorship relationships within the Christian community
This item is available here.

 7. Fellowship and Community: Regular fellowship and communal activities are not just ways to find encouragement, but the very foundation of a strong and united Christian community. They create a supportive environment where Christians can find encouragement through shared experiences and camaraderie, fostering a sense of belonging and unity.

And let’s consider how to encourage one another in love and good deeds, not abandoning our own meeting together, as is the habit of some people, but encouraging one another; and all the more as you see the day drawing near. Hebrews 10:24-25
8. Offering Forgiveness: Extending forgiveness and reconciliation in times of conflict or misunderstanding can foster a sense of unity and encouragement within the community.
Be kind to one another, compassionate, forgiving each other, just as God in Christ also has forgiven you.  Ephesians 4:32
9. Providing Practical Support: Offering practical support such as meals, childcare, or other tangible assistance during times of need can alleviate stress and serve as a source of encouragement.
Bear one another’s burdens, and thereby fulfill the law of Christ.  Galatians 6:2
10. Speaking Words of Affirmation: Expressing affirming and uplifting words to fellow believers can boost their confidence and renew their sense of purpose.
Let no unwholesome word come out of your mouth, but if there is any good word for edification according to the need of the moment, say that, so that it will give grace to those who hear.  Ephesians 4:29
Incorporating these practices into our daily lives can create a culture of encouragement and support within the Christian community, strengthening the bonds between believers and glorifying God through our actions.

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10 Powerful Ways Christians Can Encourage One Another
10 Powerful Ways Christians Can Encourage One Another
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Friday, May 31, 2024

Healing from a Broken Relationship: A Christian Perspective

Healing from a Broken Relationship: A Christian Perspective
Healing from a Broken Relationship: A Christian Perspective

Healing from a Broken Relationship: A Christian Perspective


Relationships are so crucial for a healthy lifestyle. Healthy relationships provide us with love, support, and companionship. Close friends walk with us through life's ups and downs, and they are an important source of truth when we need to hear it.  However, when a relationship breaks, it can leave us feeling heartbroken and lost. As Christians, we are called to navigate these heartbreaking times with faith and grace, leaning on the wisdom and comfort found in Scripture. Here are some biblical principles to help us deal with a broken relationship.

Trust in God's Plan


Jeremiah 29:11 reminds us, "For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope." It’s natural to feel your world is falling apart when a relationship ends. However, God assures us that He has a plan for our lives, even when we cannot see it. Trusting in His plan can provide peace and hope amidst the pain. For instance, you can start by praying for guidance and then actively seeking opportunities for personal growth and healing.

Wooden Block Home Decor Featuring the Bible verse, Jeremiah 29:11
This home decor piece featuring the Bible verse Jeremiah 29:11 is available here.

Seek Comfort in Prayer


Prayer is a powerful tool for healing. Philippians 4:6-7 encourages us, "Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." Pour out your heart to God, sharing your hurt and seeking His comfort. Prayer not only brings you closer to God but also helps in relieving the emotional burden you carry.

Home Decor Piece Featuring the Bible Verse, Philippians 4:6-7
This home decor piece featuring the Bible verse, Philippians 4:6-7, is available here.

Embrace Forgiveness


Forgiveness is a cornerstone of Christian faith. Ephesians 4:32 instructs us, "Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you." Holding onto bitterness and resentment can hinder your healing process. While it may be challenging, strive to forgive those who have hurt you. This act of grace not only follows Christ’s example but also frees you from the chains of anger and pain.

Fabric Bookmarks Featuring Ephesians 4:32
These fabric bookmarks featuring Ephesians 4:32 are available here.

Surround Yourself with a Supportive Community


Proverbs 17:17 says, "A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity." Lean on your Christian community during this hurtful time. Whether it’s friends, family, or church members, having a supportive system of others who love and care for you can provide encouragement, strength, and a sense of belonging and value. Don’t hesitate to reach out and share your struggles; sometimes, talking about your feelings can be incredibly therapeutic.

A Bracelet Featuring Proverbs 17:17, A Friend Loves At All Times
This beautiful bracelet featuring Proverbs 17:17 is available here.

Reflect and Learn


Romans 8:28 assures us, "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." Reflect on your relationship and consider what lessons you can learn from it. This period of reflection can be an opportunity for significant personal growth and spiritual development. Trust that God can use even painful experiences to make you stronger, wiser, and more compassionate, filling your future with hope and promise.

Home Decor Featuring Romans 8:28
This home decor piece featuring Romans 8:28 is available here.

Take Care of Yourself


Taking care of your physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being is crucial during this time. 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 reminds us, "Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore, honor God with your bodies." Stay active in activities that help keep you emotionally and physically healthy, such as exercise, hobbies, or leisure time in nature. Maintaining a healthy routine can also provide a sense of normalcy and stability.

Look Forward with Hope


Psalm 34:18 offers comfort, stating, "The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit." While it’s important to acknowledge and process your pain, it’s equally important to look forward with hope. God’s love and grace are always present, guiding you toward a future filled with new opportunities and blessings.

Dealing with a broken relationship is never easy. Still, as Christians, we can turn to our faith for strength and guidance. By trusting in God's plan, seeking comfort in prayer, embracing forgiveness, surrounding ourselves with a supportive community, reflecting and learning, taking care of ourselves, and looking forward with hope, we can get through this challenging time with grace and resilience. Remember, you are not alone—God is with you, now and always, providing comfort and reassurance in your journey.

May God’s peace and love be with you during this time of healing.

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Healing from a Broken Relationship: A Christian Perspective
Healing from a Broken Relationship: A Christian Perspective


Thursday, February 3, 2022

6 Ways to Show Love This Year

6 Ways to Show Love This Year
Image Credit:  Dayspring Cards and Gifts

Love is much more than a feeling. In some circumstances, love is not a feeling at all. We might feel love for someone or something, but love itself is not a feeling. Amber at Dayspring Cards and Gifts helps us learn what love is.

6 Ways to Show Love This Year 

from Amber at Dayspring Cards and Gifts

God loves everyone—and He calls us to do the same selflessly, without expectation of something in return. Love is given utmost importance in His Word. We are expected to love God with all our heart, soul, and mind—and to love our neighbor, too. What is love? The ‘Love Verse’ at 1 Corinthians 13:4-8 is an oft-quoted Scripture that reminds us love is patient and kind; not envious, boastful, or full of pride. How can we apply this in 2022?

Jesus replied: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ (Matthew 22:37-39)

LOVING GOD

You build your relationship with God when you create entries in a journaling Bible or through personal Bible study. The Lord has provided His Word as a means to grow in our faith. Praying regularly, going to church, and spending time with our church family will also encourage us in our love for Him, but there is more we need to do. We may love Him, but how can we truly serve Him if we ignore the most important thing we are commanded: to love? Loving God means loving others—an important detail we must never overlook. God IS love.

...if I have a faith that can move mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing. (1 Corinthians 13:2)

6 Ways to Show Love This Year
NIV Artisan Collection Journaling Bible

LOVE IS BIGGER THAN FEELINGS

Love is more than just an emotion. Feeling can be a part of love—we have romantic relationships, share friendships, and develop a fondness for other people—but does not define it. Love is also action, service, courtesy, and forgiveness. Sending an encouraging card or words of sympathy when someone is going through a difficult time will remind them that they are loved—by God and the people in their life. You don’t have to carry the feeling of love in order to share love with others.

Love is a choice. We can choose to respond thoughtfully in any situation when we allow our decisions to be guided by His love.

Let all that you do be done in love. (1 Corinthians 16:14)

6 Ways to Show Love This Year
Scripture Block with 52 Inspirational Prints

LOVE IS HOSPITALITY

Open your heart—and home—to others this year. Hospitality is not hosting a party to impress everyone on the block, but rather a way to show your love for your family, friends, and neighbors. An invitation to dinner or an evening relaxing by the fireplace with cups of cocoa can light up someone's day. When you provide a welcoming atmosphere and companionship, you share love.

You don’t need to go beyond your means to show your loving care. Meet a need in someone’s life—provide a ride to a doctor’s appointment for an elderly person from your community or send a jacket and packaged meal to someone who may be less fortunate. Offering what you can in someone’s time of need shows the love we are expected to have for our neighbor.

Jesus was able to offer Mary, sister of Martha and Lazarus, His unconditional, irrevocable, pure love and forgiveness for her sins. Mary responded with an act that showed her gratefulness to Jesus—she poured out her love and devotion when she washed His feet with her tears, dried them with her own hair, then anointed Him with an expensive perfume. When onlookers criticized the act as wasteful, Jesus reminded them that her great sins had been forgiven through an act of His own love—in return, she provided Him a beautiful gesture of love in the way she was able.

6 Ways to Show Love This Year
Love Big Framed Wall Art

WHEN LOVE IS DIFFICULT

Love can be a sacrifice, as God Himself showed when he sent us His Son. Jesus showed us the same when He went to the cross to die for our sins. Loving somebody may be difficult as well, but Jesus calls for us to love our enemies. Is there an ‘enemy’ in your life who is difficult to love? Perhaps you have an overbearing relative, someone from work you don’t get along with, or a neighbor who just seems impossible.

Loving our enemies doesn’t mean we need to go to a movie together and chat about the work week. It simply means we treat them with respect—regardless of whether they show us respect in return. We must pray to the Lord for strength and guidance in order to fulfill His commandment, especially if we cannot seem to find it within ourselves. Rather than wondering how you can possibly show love to this person, look deeper. Loving our enemies may mean pledging not to cause harm—even to their reputation or feelings. We do not speak ill of those with whom we do not get along, nor do we wish them ill. Loving someone may mean offering forgiveness or withholding judgment.

But love your enemies, do good to them, and lend to them without expecting to get anything back. Then your reward will be great, and you will be children of the Most High, because he is kind to the ungrateful and wicked. (Luke 6:35)

6 Ways to Show Love This Year
Candace Cameron Bure Love Over All Gift Set

THREE STRATEGIES TO CHOOSE LOVE IN 2022

1) Love through prayer.  He has commanded us to love, but He does not expect us to do it on our own. Pray for His guidance, and He will direct you. Ask God to help you see people through His eyes. Through God, you can gain the strength to love those who may be difficult to love. Humble yourself before the Lord—because sometimes you may be difficult to love as well.

2) Love through action. Love isn’t all service, but it is a large part of it. We serve Him by loving each other, and we can serve others in love. Put love into action: volunteer, help a neighbor with yard work, or introduce someone to the love found in His Word.

3) Love through attentiveness. Family and friends love to feel loved. Offer recognition of the time and effort put into the dinner on the table, concern when they’re unhappy, or words of affirmation when they need some encouragement. Simply being available can show your love in big ways.

6 Ways to Show Love This Year
Love Never Fails Earrings and Ring Dish Gift Set

HOW SHOWING LOVE MIGHT LOOK IN YOUR LIFE:

> Exhibiting patience rather than frustration at the person ahead of you in line
> Offering forgiveness when you feel you have been wronged
> Setting aside time to spend in His Word each day
> Focusing on courtesy in your everyday interactions with strangers and family alike
> Praying for a friend, family member, acquaintance—or someone you don’t get along with

We know how it feels to be on the receiving end of love, so how wonderful it is also to spread love to others. When we consider the gift of God’s unconditional love, we realize how truly lucky we are to be loved by Him. Loving others is how we show Him we are listening and want to do as He does. Not only does sharing love make others feel good, it lifts you up as well. Go into the new year with a heart full of love.

Looking for more inspiration? Check out our entire Devotional Library.

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6 Ways to Show Love This Year
 6 Ways to Show Love This Year


6 Ways to Show Love This Year


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