"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"; "I’m not pretty/handsome enough"; "I’m not thin enough"; "I’m not smart enough"; and I can go on and on. When you say or think words or thoughts like these, you are not thinking positively about yourself, nor are you showing self-love. As a single it is very important that you love and appreciate yourself before meeting your spouse, otherwise it can become a burden that you place on him/her when it is not theirs to carry. Learn to speak and think positive thoughts and words about yourself by reading the word of God and believing what it says about you.

"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, then He's also going to take His time in preparing the one your heart longs for. Learn to love your wonderful and fearfully made self and stop comparing yourself to others. When you lean to accept yourself it will help you to love and accept the man or woman God has for you. Been there, done that!

"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 maintain your youthful appearance? Then please do me a favour, stop worrying about tomorrow. When we constantly worry about tomorrow, it can literally take the joy out of today. As a single in waiting the thought will come, “How much longer, Lord, do I have to wait?” and this is completely normal. But asking this question on a constant basis will only make your wait feel that much longer. Instead, say the following: “God, prepare me for the man/woman I am going to marry.” Doesn't this sound more liberating? Take the burden off yourself to find someone, and trust God to do this for you. With the right mindset, it just might happen sooner than you think.

"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, for you. So many singles drop the ball in this area for various reasons, here are a few:
1. They think to themselves, “Why should I have to look good he/she should be able to see my heart” 2. Or they say, “I'm not trying to pick up anyone” 3. They have given up hope in meeting a life partner 4. They simply need help in this area. 

Whatever the reason, there is help for those who need it and there is hope for those who need it. Even Naomi knew that Ruth should put her best foot forward when presenting herself to Boaz. Don’t get lazy when it comes to putting yourself together nicely; it is a good practice, and if you’re blessed with friends who can help you with this, take their advice (as long as it modest advice).

Some suggestions on what you can do this Valentines Day:

• Check out the single valentine’s event going on in your city
• Book a full body massage at a spa
• Bake valentine's short bread cookies for your friends to show how much you love and appreciate them.
• Men, take that lady in your life out for valentines, I'm sure your mother or sister would absolutely love that.

I hope you were encouraged and empowered by this read.

God Bless.

Tanika Chambers