Love in Any Language
| Valentine’s Day affords another opportunity to express our love to those we hold dear. There are many ways to show love and appreciation to your sweetheart. But the important thing is that love be expressed in a language that speaks to their heart. After all, God expressed His love for us in a language understood by all mankind. “But God demonstrated His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners Christ died for us” (Romans 5:8 NKJV). That’s love in any language. In his book The Five Love Languages Dr. Gary Chapman writes about the importance of expressing |
love to one’s spouse in a language they understand. Which of these languages speaks the most to your sweetheart?
WORDS OF AFFIRMATION – this could be when you say how nice your spouse looks or how delicious the dinner was. Encouraging words will build your mates self-image and confidence.
QUALITY TIME – some spouses believe being together and doing things together is the best way to show love. It is giving undivided attention that is important to them.
GIFTS – in all cultures gift giving demonstrates love. Some spouses feel neglected and unloved when a birthday, anniversary, or some other special occasion is forgotten. If the language of GIFTS speaks the most to your spouse, be sure to give them the type of gift they really love and appreciate.
ACTS OF SERVICE – discovering what acts of service most pleases your spouse and doing it with joy speaks volumes. It could be cleaning the car, making a special dinner, or helping alleviate some of their “honey do lists”.
PHYSICAL TOUCH – to some a hug, holding hands, or physical intimacy fulfills their need for knowing they are loved.
When one understands and experiences God’s love, they can more fully express love to their sweetheart. Marriage is to be an illustration of God’s love. “Husbands love your wives just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her . . . So husbands ought to love their own wives as their own bodies; he who loves his wife loves himself. For no one ever hated his own flesh but nourishes and cherishes it, just as the Lord does the church . . . and let the wife see that she respects her husband” (Ephesians 5:22-33 NKJV).
Jesus Christ demonstrated the love that husband and wives are to express to each other. “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served but to serve and to give His life a ransom for many” (Mark 10:45). That’s love in any language. Have you experienced God’s love and mercy? It will transform your life and marriage. You can receive His gift of everlasting life today.
A - Admit you have sinned. “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23).
B - Believe in Jesus. “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life” (John 3:16).
C - Confess and leave your sin. “If we confess our sins he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:9).
by: Cliff Sanders