I find this verse from Proverbs especially applicable to this time of year when so many are looking for that one special someone with whom to share their lives. Sometimes I wonder how it can be possible to open a heart after it has been hurt so badly and yet we must do so in order to fulfill God’s plan for us.
This verse from Proverbs urges us to love and be loved again. This does not mean jumping into a relationship before you are ready, and I caution you to take your time getting emotionally or physically involved with someone before God has healed you. What it does mean is that you not turn your back on any of the many types of love out there: the incredible love for a child, parental love, husband-wife love, neighborly love, brotherly love, love of a stranger, and even love for our enemies.
When loving others, it is important to note that, as Proverbs 27: 19 points out, no two hearts are the same and therefore we must not carry pain from previous relationships into new ones. Be sure you are not imposing punishments or judgments a past mate deserves on a worthy person you meet today. At the same time, be wary of falling for the same traps that lured you to your previous situations.
The Bible tells us to guard our hearts but also to allow our hearts to open to others. This is a delicate balance made even more difficult in the face of pain inflicted by others whom we have loved and trusted, and yet I hope you do so.
If you have been abandoned, abused, or neglected in some way by a loved one, the thought of opening your heart again may be very frightening and yet rewarding, for the greater the pain, the greater the joy in overcoming it. Remember too that there are many types of love to which we must remain open.
As the New Year approaches, I hope you find solace in Proverbs 27: 19 and use wisdom and the Grace of God to open your hearts and minds to many types of love. I wish you and your loved ones a happy, healthy, loving New Year. God Bless…