We all have different ways of expressing and receiving love; the same is true regarding our relationship with God. In his book “The 5 Love Languages,” author Gary Chapman introduced the concept of “love languages” to understand how different people express and feel loved. We’ll explore how we can apply the five love languages to our relationship with God.

Words of Affirmation: This love language is about using words to build up and encourage the other person, for example, meditating on God’s promises and blessings or writing in a gratitude journal.

• “Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord will personally go ahead of you. He will be with you; he will neither fail you nor abandon you.” (Deuteronomy 31:8) 
• “For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.” (Jeremiah 29:11)

Acts of Service: This love language is about showing love through actions rather than words. 

• “Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.” (1 John 3:18) 
• “Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.”(1 Peter 4:10)

Receiving Gifts: This love language is about the giving and receiving of physical gifts as a way to express love. By making these gifts to God, like giving offerings or tithes at church or making donations to a religious organization, we are expressing our love and appreciation for all He has done for us. 

• “Honor the Lord with your wealth, with the first fruits of all your crops.” (Proverbs 3:9) 

Quality Time: This love language is about spending focused, undivided time with someone to show love. In the context of relating to God, this could include setting aside time for daily prayer, reading scripture, or participating in church services or activities. 

• “But Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed.”(Luke 5:16)

Physical Touch: This love language is about physical touch as a way to express love. This could include participating in practices involving physical movements such as kneeling, bowing, genuflection, making the sign of the cross, or praying with a rosary. We strengthen our connection by physically expressing our love and devotion to God. 

• “Oh come, let us worship and bow down; let us kneel before the Lord, our Maker!” (Psalm 95:6) 
• “But I, by your great love, can come into your house; in reverence, I bow down toward your holy temple.” (Psalm 5:7)

Love languages can be a helpful framework to understand and explore other ways to connect with God; it’s essential to take the time to explore and discover what works best for you in your relationship with Him.

TIPS

• Consider how you typically express love to God. Are you more likely to pray, read scripture, or participate in community events from your church?
• Pay attention to what makes you feel connected to God. Are you more likely to feel connected when you meditate on the word, sing, or fast?
• Talk to your pastor or spiritual advisor about your relationship with God, as they may be able to offer insights and suggestions.