(Day 9 of a series called “23 days to a better devotional life.” I’m posting daily this month on devotions.)

Happy Valentine’s Day.

For those of you dating or married, this day can be a great time to show your special someone how much you care about them. Also, this is a good time to evaluate your relationship with God. “God is love” (1 John 4:16). Our capacity to love is based on how well we know God. Think of your relationship as a triangle. The closer you get to God, the closer you will be to your special someone.

For others like myself, this day can feel like National Singles Awareness Day. We’re reminded of our singleness when we go to Walmart and see the many flowers on sale. We get jealous of our non-single friends, because they’re going on dates while we’re staying home alone.

Loneliness can bring us down very quickly. Whenever I feel lonely, I try to remember what I read in the book I Kissed Dating Goodbye. I try see my lonely times as a chance to draw closer to God. I try to see loneliness as a way God draws me to Himself. When I open up to God about my loneliness, I find that He helps me overcome my despair. He comforts me. He gives me strength and wisdom to avoid wallowing in self-pity. And my relationship with Him is strengthened.

So today, even if it doesn’t feel right on Valentine’s Day, see your loneliness as time to turn to God and experience His companionship.