Everyone wants to be loved. Different words and actions help us feel loved. With Valentine’s Day coming soon, let’s consider love languages as described by Gary Chapman in his book “The Five Love Languages”. We’ll also look at how God can fulfill our needs for love.

The first way that some feel loved is by “words of affirmation” such as, “You did a good job on that project.” “What a delicious supper.” “I appreciated how you handled our son’s temper tantrum.” God demonstrates words of affirmation by reminding us that we are made in His image (Genesis 1), that we are fearfully and wonderfully made (Psalm 139), that He wants to gather us under His protective care as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings during a storm (Matthew 23), and that he rejoices over us with singing, (Zephaniah 3).

Second, some people feel most loved through “acts of service,” such as vacuuming, washing the car, mowing the lawn or washing the dishes. Of course, God is not likely to wash the dishes while we sleep, yet He does perform amazing acts of service. He gives us sunshine, rain, air, stunning landscapes, our next heart beat, healing when we are ill, comfort when we are sad, and the promise that He will always be with us.” “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them (enemies), for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you,” (Hebrews 31:6 NIV).

Third, considering “physical touch” can be a bit challenging since God is not physically present on the earth as he was 2,000 years ago. However, His promises still hold true since He tells us, “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand,” (Isaiah 41:10 NIV). God himself, will uphold us if we ask. Also, being in community with other Christians offers us the opportunity to feel God’s touch as we engage with one another through communication, hugs and prayers together.

Fourth, some feel loved by “receiving gifts”. What greater gift could we want than the promise of eternity where a perfect God rules over a perfect heaven? That is ours if we accept the gift of Jesus’ death for our salvation. “Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved. (Acts 4:12 NIV). God said there was one way to salvation and He sent the gift of His Son to be that one way. We are loved!

Finally, some people feel loved through “quality time.” God eagerly offers that. “Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with that person and they with me,” (Revelation 3:20 NIV). What a beautifully comfortable picture. Knocking, being let in and sitting down to eat together. That is quality time. When Jesus was on earth, he modeled quality time by allowing crowds of people to follow him, meeting the needs of the sick and allowing children to engage with him. By the way, Jesus apparently had a winsome personality since children were drawn to Him. Are we that kind of people who lovingly give quality time to others?

God’s love is available to all who will accept it. “For as high as the heavens are above the earth, so great is his love for those who fear Him…” (Psalm 103:11a NIV). “And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus, (Philippians 4:19 NIV).