Loved and Cherished by God

"The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit." - Psalm 34:18

Valentine's Day can be difficult when you feel alone or unappreciated. Perhaps you are single and

longing for companionship, or maybe you have a spouse who does not express love in the way you desire. While the world celebrates love with grand gestures, you may be left wondering if anyone truly sees or values you.

But take heart–there is a love that is deeper, stronger, and more faithful than any human love. God's love for you is unchanging. He sees your pain, hears your prayers, and understands your heartache. The Bible reminds us in Isaiah 49:16, "See, I have engraved you on the palms of my hands." You are not forgotten. You are not unloved. You are deeply cherished by your Heavenly Father.

Jesus Himself experienced loneliness and rejection. On the cross, He felt forsaken so that you would never have to be. His sacrifice was the greatest declaration of love, proving that you are worth everything to Him.

This Valentine's Day, if you find yourself feeling alone or overlooked, shift your focus to the One who loves you perfectly. Rest in His presence, knowing that His love is enough to fill every empty space in your heart. You are loved, chosen, and precious in His sight.

Pouring Into Others for God's Glory

When we feel empty or unappreciated, it's easy to withdraw and focus on what we lack. But one of the most powerful ways to experience God's love is by sharing it with others. Instead of waiting to be loved, choose to be love.

• Reach out to someone else who may be struggling–a widow, a single parent, or a friend who is hurting.

• Write a note of encouragement, send a small gift, or offer a kind word to someone who needs it.

• Serve in your church or community, allowing God's love to flow through you.

Jesus said in Acts 20:35, "It is more blessed to give than to receive." When we pour out our love to others, we reflect the heart of God and bring Him glory. As we shift our focus from what we lack to how we can love, we will find that our own hearts are filled in the process.

Reflection

• How can you remind yourself today that God's love is enough?

• Who in your life might need encouragement and a reminder that they are loved?

• How can you pour into others today as an act of worship to God?

Prayer

Father, I come to You with an open heart. You know my struggles and the longing I feel. Help me to remember that Your love is greater than anything this world can offer. Fill the empty places in my heart with your presence, and remind me that I am never truly alone. Teach me to find my worth in You and to reflect Your love to those around me. Give me the strength to pour into others, not out of my own strength but through the overflow of Your love. May my actions bring You glory today and always. In Jesus' name, Amen.