A Valentine's message

   As 14th February approaches, our thoughts may turn to Valentine cards and gifts; remembering expressions of love in years gone by, or  looking forward to what this year may bring.

  Human love-relationships may not always last, but there's one thing you can always be sure of: God loves you.  He knows everything there is to know about you, including your past, present and future. He doesn't miss a thing.

   And here's the most amazing part. With full knowledge of you, He still loves you! He doesn't say, 'I love you, if….' There are no 'ifs' in God's heart. His love for you existed before you were born and it will exist after you're gone from this earth.

   Does that mean God doesn't care what we say or do? No, to love without condition doesn't mean to love without concern. Sometimes we confuse unconditional love with unconditional approval.  God doesn't approve of betrayal, selfishness, pride, dishonesty, or any other form of sin. These are the opposite of the love God wants to instil in our hearts. God's unconditional love just means He continues to love you even when you blow it; that He is waiting for you like the father waited for the return of his prodigal son (read what Jesus taught in Luke 15:11-32).

   It's important that we hold to this truth: that God never stops loving us even when He's grieved by what we do. 'Why is that so important?' you ask. Because God's love is the magnet that will draw you back to Him every time, so that you can receive his forgiveness and enjoy the love-relationship he longs to share with you.

 Adapted from Word for Today - www.ucb.co.uk