Are you sick and tired of Valentine’s Day ideas that include nothing but candies, romantic dinners, or lipstick tutorials? Does the idea of exalting romantic love as the be-all and end-all revolt you? You’re not alone! What about those of us still waiting for someone to share affection with on this day? What about those of us who are single and loving it? And what about those of us who are in a committed relationship but don’t want this day to become consumed by commercialism instead of real love? This is the post for all of us. These are my Valentine’s Day Ideas about real love—for anyone!

When I started writing this post, I tried to think back on all the Valentine’s Days I’d spent with someone. Let’s just say it’s easier to remember the 30-something I “celebrated” alone. I’m giggling as I type this because it’s true! I’ve been single for a really long time. I’m at a place in my journey where I can say I’d love to get hitched, but I’m not upset about where God has me, either.

That might not be the case for you. I know Valentine’s Day is just something companies use to make a buck. Kidding, I don’t actually know that. It’s more of a strong suspicion. But as much as we say V-Day doesn’t mean anything, it does. Seeing your friends snuggled up to their boo while you’re snuggled up with your cat hurts. Let’s just be honest with each other and get it out: Sometimes being single stinks. Like how your house smells after cooking salmon stinks. But being sad won’t get me anywhere—except maybe straight to more sad.

And what about those who are happily coupled up? Maybe your dating relationship is strong, but you’re worried your special someone will forget about you—and everyone else will get that diamond ring. Maybe you’re engaged and don’t have any money to put toward a (we already said it) mostly made-up day. Maybe your marriage has been chugging along for years, and you’re just looking for ideas on how to keep this day fresh.

Here’s the bottom line. No matter where you find yourself on Valentine’s Day (on a date, with friends, relaxed on your couch) it’s an outstanding opportunity to show genuine love to others. 1 Peter 4:7-11 MSG tells us to “love each other as if our lives depended on it.” It tells us to be generous with the different things God gave us. When you take the focus off what you want out of this day, it frees you to show God’s love instead. And what better day than Valentine’s Day to love your neighbors extravagantly?

Here are six Valentine’s Day Ideas for anyone.

For those who are single and not necessarily loving it:

Try dressing up a little. This might sound trivial, but you’ll feel better if you look your best. Just trust me on this one, and switch out the messy bun and yoga pants for something special. Everyone else is—why not join in? And don’t forget to dress up your face with a smile. Psalm 9:2 MSG says, I’m whistling, laughing and jumping for joy; I’m singing your song, High God. It’s actually an act of praise to share the joy you have in God with others!

For those who are single and loving it:

Think about who you can share the day with. Are there other single girls & guys you know who might be feeling left out? Why not have everyone over for a game or movie night (maybe skip the rom coms this time, though). Want to give someone a Valentine? Do it! Send flowers to your momma, give your bestie a call, or surprise your niece with a fun gift. Have fun getting creative while you love on your family and friends.

For dating couples:

Learn about each other in a fun way. Do you know each other’s love language? If you’re hoping to have a successful relationship, it will help to know how you each receive love. Does your sweetheart feel most loved when you give a gift or when you take care of one of their tasks for them? Learn how to make them feel loved using their love language.

For engaged couples:

Get serious about marriage by spending some time praying for your future marriage and for your married friends and family to experience and enjoy each other in brand new, exciting ways. Marriage is hard work, and some couples you know could be struggling. Use this day of celebrating love to practice the only thing a solid marriage can be built on: your relationship with Jesus Christ.

For married couples:

Use this day as an opportunity for you to remind yourself to be thankful for your relationship. What’s one thing you’ve always loved about your partner? What’s one lovely thing you’ve been noticing about them lately? What’s one thing about them that makes you excited for your future together? Thank God for these things, and share each one with your partner in a way they’ll appreciate. (See point number 3 if you’re not sure of the best way to help them receive your loving thoughts.)

For everyone:

Remember the good plans God has specifically for you. Consider the truth found in 2 Thessalonians 2:13-14 MSG … God picked you out as his from the very start. Think of it: included in God’s original plan of salvation by the bond of faith in the living truth. … You are uniquely chosen and uniquely loved by the God of the universe. Soak that in. Receive that love today!

My prayer for you is that this Valentine’s Day would be different. Different because you walk in the fact that you are loved infinitely by God, regardless of your single/married/dating/engaged status. You’re complete in Him. You’re His beloved. And because of all this awesomeness, you’re able to love others like He loves you. So, take the idea you need, get out there, and love on some people.

Source: https://finds.life.church/6-valentines-day-ideas-real-love-anyone/