Welcome to another Favor Fridays with Tony! Today, we celebrate Valentine’s Day, a time dedicated to love and appreciation. But this is no ordinary day—it’s also the 14th day of Black History Month, a perfect opportunity to reflect on the deep and transformative power of love throughout history. Love is more than romantic gestures; it is the foundation of strong communities, movements, and faith. God’s favor of love is a gift that strengthens relationships, builds legacies, and fuels change.
Love: A Divine Gift
Love is one of the most powerful forces in existence. The Bible reminds us in 1 John 4:8 (The Message):
“The person who refuses to love doesn’t know the first thing about God, because God is love—so you can’t know Him if you don’t love.”
Love is at the core of God’s nature, and His favor allows us to extend that love to others. Whether it’s romantic love, familial love, or the love found in friendships and communities, we see God’s presence in each expression.
Biblical Examples of Love in Action
The Bible provides many examples of how love shapes faith and relationships:
1. Ruth & Naomi – The Power of Loyalty (Ruth 1:16-17)
When Ruth refused to leave her mother-in-law Naomi after both had lost their husbands, she showed that love is faithful and enduring. She declared:
“Where you go, I go; and where you live, I’ll live. Your people are my people, your God is my God.”
Love binds people together beyond blood ties—it strengthens through commitment and faithfulness.
2. Boaz & Ruth – The Favor of Romantic Love (Ruth 4:13-15)
God’s favor brought Ruth and Boaz together, forming a union that would lead to the lineage of King David and ultimately Jesus Christ. Their story demonstrates that God blesses love when it is rooted in kindness and integrity.
3. Jesus’ Love for Humanity (John 15:13)
The greatest example of selfless love is Jesus’ sacrifice for mankind:
“This is the very best way to love. Put your life on the line for your friends.”
This verse reminds us that true love is about service, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to the well-being of others.
The Favor of Love in Black History
As we celebrate Black History Month, we acknowledge that love has been a driving force behind the resilience, strength, and progress of Black communities. Love inspired leaders, families, and visionaries to overcome adversity and fight for justice.
1. Martin Luther King Jr. & Coretta Scott King – Love as a Foundation for Change
Dr. King’s commitment to nonviolence was rooted in his belief that love is the greatest force for transformation. His wife, Coretta Scott King, was his partner in faith and activism, continuing his legacy after his passing. Their love exemplifies how unity and shared vision can impact generations.
2. Harriet Tubman – Love as Liberation
Harriet Tubman risked her life repeatedly to free enslaved people through the Underground Railroad. Her actions were motivated by a deep love for her people and an unshakable faith in God. She once said:
“I prayed to God to make me strong and able to fight, and that’s what I’ve always prayed for ever since.”
Her love for justice and freedom was a testament to God’s favor and strength.
3. Maya Angelou – Love Through Words
Poet and activist Maya Angelou spoke of love’s endurance in her iconic poem “Love Liberates”. She taught that love is not about possession but about freedom—allowing others to be their best selves while providing unwavering support.
4. Barack & Michelle Obama – Love as Leadership
The Obamas have exemplified love, partnership, and purpose. Michelle Obama once said:
“I love Barack because he’s the kind of man who does what he says he’s going to do, even when it’s hard—even when it’s unpopular.”
Their relationship shows that love can be a source of strength and encouragement, both personally and in service to others.
The Favor of Love in Our Lives
God’s favor allows us to experience love deeply and to share it abundantly. Here are ways we can walk in the favor of love daily:
1. Love in Relationships
Whether single, dating, or married, relationships flourish when built on trust, respect, and faith. 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 (The Message) reminds us:
“Love never gives up. Love cares more for others than for self. Love doesn’t strut, doesn’t have a swelled head, doesn’t force itself on others, isn’t always ‘me first,’ doesn’t fly off the handle, doesn’t keep score of the sins of others.”
2. Love in Family & Community
Families and friendships thrive when love is the foundation. Supporting one another, forgiving easily, and prioritizing time together are ways to honor the favor of love.
3. Love in Service
Jesus demonstrated servant-hearted love, and we can do the same by helping those in need, uplifting others, and being a source of encouragement.
Practical Ways to Embrace the Favor of Love
Pray for Love – Ask God to fill your heart with love for yourself and others.
Express Gratitude – Show appreciation to loved ones through words, actions, and time.
Forgive Freely – Love heals wounds and moves beyond past hurts.
Support Black-Owned Businesses & Causes – Honor Black History Month by supporting businesses, artists, and initiatives that uplift the community.
Celebrate Love in All Forms – Whether romantic, familial, or platonic, recognize and cherish the love in your life.
Closing Thoughts: Love as a Legacy
Today, as we celebrate Valentine’s Day and Black History Month, let’s reflect on how love has shaped history and continues to transform our lives. God’s favor gives us the strength to love boldly, forgive easily, and build a future where love leads the way.
Let’s commit to walking in the favor of love—just as those before us did. May our love reflect God’s love, bringing healing, hope, and joy to all we encounter.
Want to see how faith and love come together in action? Check out my superhero novel series, S.O.L.A.D.™: Soldiers of Light Against Darkness™. It’s a story about characters discovering their God-given purpose and learning to lead with love and faith. Visit www.tyronetonyreedjr.com/the-shop to get your autographed copy and start your journey today!
Comments