This Valentine’s, Don’t Forget To Love Yourself Too!
“You shall love your neighbor as yourself. There is no other commandment greater than these.” Mark 12:31
When it comes to loving yourself pay close attention to the words you say and the thoughts you think about yourself. Many say or have thoughts like: “I’m not good enough,” “not pretty/handsome enough” “not thin enough” “not smart enough” and I can go on and on. When you say or think on thoughts like these you are only subtracting from who God say’s you are.
“I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.” Psalm 139:14
Do you know that God took the time to create you? and if He took the time to create you He’s also going to take His time in preparing the one your heart longs for.
“Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of it’s own. Matthew 6:34
Do you want to stay looking young? Then please do me a favour, STOP worrying about tomorrow. When we constantly worry about what a day will bring it could steal the joy out of TODAY. As a single, you may wonder “how much longer do I have to wait?” I know , I’ve been there which is why I am writing to encourage you during this time of the year. Instead, I want you to say the following words: “God prepare me for the man/woman I am going to marry.” Doesn’t this sound more liberating? It will definitely take the burden off of yourself for sure and keep your mind focused on being READY emotionally, spiritually, intellectually and physically.
Lastly, “Wash and perfume yourself, and put on your best clothes. Then go down to the threshing floor, but don’t let him know you are there until he has finished eating and drinking.” Ruth 3:3.
Ladies and Gents don’t only put on your best clothes and perfume when a prospect is in view. Make it a practice to always look and smell your best even if you’re the only one having Sunday dinner and please get rid of the excuses.
Here are a few::
1. Why do I have to “look good”… he/she should be able to see my heart
2. I’m not trying to pick up anyone
3. What’s the point of putting myself together when no one notices me anyway
4. I don’t have any fashion sense.
Have you ever thought or said any of the above statements?
If so, it’s time for a new perspective. Look, even though Boaz had already noticed Ruth, Naomi, like any good friend, wanted Ruth to put her best foot forward by taking some extra care in how she presented herself to a man who could very well become her future mate.
Now, Ruth could have gotten offended by Naomi’s request but she didn’t. Ruth was a humble woman who took Naomi’s wise counsel and did what she said.
Do you have a Naomi in your life? Someone who has been suggesting that you put your best foot forward by taking a bit more pride in how you carry yourself..how you dress..comb your hair..etc?
How did you respond to him/her? Were you offended? Did you eventually cut them off? or did you embrace what they had to say?
Something to think about.:)
Talking about self-care here are a few suggestions for the month of February:
1. Get enough rest if you don’t want to be an irritable single woman/man looking for love, you may want to consider going to bed one hour earlier than your regular time.
2. Make Healthier Eating Choices. Grab an apple instead of cookies as a bed time snack. It will not only make you feel better you will look better too.
3. Just Say No…this is for those who are known to always say yes even when they really want to say no…lol..Just because someone is interested doesn’t mean you have to be. Make better use of your time by investing in someone you’re at least interested in getting to know.
4. Give yourself permission to do something fun. Hard work and no play equals no fun. Go out to a singles ministry event. Invite a friend out to lunch/dinner. Take a trip, you deserve it!!!
Can you handle that? I look forward to hearing how you incorporated any of the above or other self-care regimes into your daily routine this month.
Have an amazing week ahead!
Tanika is the author of the book Single, Ready & Waiting: Your Guide to Courtship
A sought after speaker on topics like: Love, Life and Relationships and a certified Christian Counsellor.
To learn more about her visit www.tanikachambers.com