Love That Reflects Jesus
I’ve shared about a relationship in my past that went significantly wrong—one filled with confusion, hurt, and emotional manipulation. But today, I get to write about a relationship that went (and is still going) beautifully, undeniably right.
A few years ago, some dear friends introduced me to a guy by setting us up on a double date to a Braves game. That night led to more conversations, more time spent together, and eventually, to dating. Looking back now, I’m overwhelmed with gratitude for how kind, patient, and consistent he was from the start. Our relationship is such a clear example of how God takes brokenness and turns it into something beautiful.
Romans 8:28 says,
“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”
This verse has never felt more personal.
In the early months of dating, I remember telling my best friend how his kindness actually made me uncomfortable. I was so used to love being conditional and unpredictable that his gentleness felt foreign. I said, “He’s just… so nice. I keep waiting for the ball to drop.”
My best friend gently stopped me and asked, “If I came to you describing this exact relationship, what would you say?” I laughed and replied, “That’s different!” She smiled and asked, “How? Aren’t you a daughter of God just like I am? Don’t you deserve the same kind of love?”
That moment changed me. It was the heart-check I didn’t know I needed.
My husband is one of the kindest, most servant-hearted, and joy-filled men I’ve ever known. He makes me laugh constantly, sees me fully, and loves me unconditionally. He has been steady and gracious in ways I didn’t even know I needed. Through him, I’ve experienced the heart of Jesus—patient, kind, and full of grace.
There are still moments when the past creeps in—when I mess up and brace myself for a harsh reaction. But instead, I’m met with gentleness. Every time.
His love has helped me heal. It’s a living reminder of 1 Corinthians 13:7:
“Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.”
Just to be clear our relationship isn’t perfect. But it is real, rooted in truth and grace, and built on the foundation of God’s redemptive work in both of our lives.
If you’re reading this and you’ve walked through relationships that have left you questioning your worth—know this: God does not waste your pain. He is in the business of restoration, and the love He has for you is not based on your past but on who He says you are—His beloved.