5 Loving Prayers to Say on Valentine’s Day

February 14, commonly known as Valentine’s Day, is a day when we celebrate the love we have for those dearest to us, by giving them tokens of affection: cards, candies, and/or gifts. For some, this holiday is welcomed with open arms and warmed hearts. For others, however, it is a painful reminder of what they don’t have, or what they have lost.

Whether you are single (as in, not in a relationship, divorced, or widowed) or in a relationship, here are five prayers you can pray on this day, Valentine’s Day.

1. God of Love

Scripture verses for this prayer: Romans, 5:8, 1 John 4:7-21, Ephesians 1:4

God, I am so grateful you are a God of love, that you are love, that love defines you. I am grateful that you first loved me and chose me to be yours before the foundation of the world was laid, and even while I was still a sinner, dead in my trespasses. You loved me, and you love me still.

I know, too, that I can only love others because of the love you’ve shown me, because I am “born” of you and you abide in me. Father, I want love to define me, as well. Whenever I interact with anyone, whether it’s with my spouse or my children, my friends or my neighbors—with everyone!—I want them to see you, and your love pouring through me and from me. And not just today, Valentine’s Day, but every day.

I ask this in your name. Amen.

2. God of Forgiveness

Scripture verses for this prayer: Ephesians 4:31-32, John 13:24, Matthew 5:44

Father, I know this day is specially set aside for love and affection, but I’m harboring unforgiveness in my heart toward my (parent/spouse/child/friend/neighbor/co-worker/etc.). I know this emotion is the opposite of love and not from you. You call us to love everyone, even our enemies. So, I confess my anger and bitterness toward _______ (name of person). Please soften my heart, Father. Help me to put aside my anger and malice and put on compassion and love toward them, today and every day.

3. God of all Comfort

Scripture verses for this prayer: Zephaniah 3:17, Psalm 56:8, Romans 15:13, 2 Corinthians 1:3-4

Father, I miss __________ (name of person) terribly. They meant so much to me, and I miss their presence, their laughter, their love. My heart aches that I can’t be with them today. Help me to celebrate the love we had when (they were alive/when we were married/dating). I know you know my sorrow, and you see my tears of grief. You’re even collecting them and recording each one, which gives me great comfort. Have mercy on me, Father, and let me feel you love today, even in this season of mourning. Help me to find joy in you, Father, in your love and comfort this holiday.

This, in Jesus’ name, I pray, Amen.

4. Giver of Good Gifts

Scriptures verses for this prayer: Psalm 84:11, Psalm 104:28, Matthew 7:11, James 1:17

Lord, you have blessed me tremendously. You have given me all that I need, both physically and spiritually: shelter, food, clothing, salvation. You have redeemed me, called me out of darkness into your holy Light. I want for nothing. I am overwhelmed by your gracious generosity, by all the good gifts you’ve given me.

For those who are married: I thank you for the gift of my spouse. Although we’ve had our differences, I am blessed for having them in my life.

For those with children: Thank you for the gift of my children, Lord. At times, they’ve been challenging, but they are still a treasure and a blessing to me. I am grateful for the lives you’ve entrusted to me. I love them dearly and pray a special blessing on them this day.

This, in Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

5. Greatest Gift of Love Ever Given

Scripture verses for this prayer: John 3:16, 10:14, 27-28; Philippians 1:6,

Jesus, my Redeemer, you made a way for me to be with God in heaven, which is my dearest hope. Jesus, my Sanctifier, you make me complete day by day. Jesus, my Shepherd, you call me by name, you know me; and you guard and guide me every day. Jesus, my High Priest, you are attentive to my every prayer, even when I don’t know what or how to pray. In you, Jesus, I am truly blessed and wholly satisfied. I need nothing else and no one else. No earthly, temporary gift compares to you, Jesus.

Thank you, sweet Jesus, for the gift of yourself in all its many facets. Amen.

Photo Credit: ©GettyImages/Adene Sanchez 

Denise is a former newspaper reporter and current freelance writer. She has been published in numerous online and print publications. She is also a former Women's Bible Study teacher. Denise's passion is to use her writing to bless, encourage, and inform others. She lives outside of Chicago with her husband and two children (another has grown and flown). You can find Denise at denisekohlmeyer.com.