I recently enjoyed a few days together with my husband to celebrate our thirty-third wedding anniversary. One of the best things about getting away with my husband, at least from my point of view, is the time we are able to spend in uninterrupted conversation. Meaningful discussions and time spent together strengthen our relationship.

I think all women would agree that conversation in general makes us feel better! Maybe that is why I like candy conversation hearts so much.

Actually, when I was a young child, conversation hearts were my favorite Valentine’s Day candy. Even as I grew older and into adulthood, they  continued to be a fun, nostalgic candy for me. My husband knows this, and to this day, I love it when my husband gives me conversation hearts on Valentine’s Day.

But about eight years ago, this little box of candies became extra special. My son Larry was recently engaged to his sweet fiancé, Ashley. The Valentine’s Day following their engagement was special for them, and Larry was so excited to tell me about all the surprises he had planned for Ashley. I was delighted for him and listened intently as he explained how he hoped the day would unfold.

At the end of the conversation, Larry pulled out a big box of conversation hearts and handed me a card that said, “Mom, you will always be my first Valentine.”

I think I cried for days! (We moms know all about happy tears.)

So, yes, conversation hearts are my favorite. I love everything about them…including the messages on them.

Perhaps you think the messages on conversation hearts are shallow—cheap, trite nothings. But like the simple “You will always be my first Valentine” message from my son, the conversation hearts messages are full of sweet meaning when given from a loving heart.

Recently, I took a good look at the messages on the conversation hearts and noticed how they correlate with some of God’s loving promises to us. As you hopefully enjoy a special Valentine’s Day, here are a few love reminders from God based on the phrases found on my favorite heart candy:

 1.   You & Me: “You’re not in this alone…I am with you.”

Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.—Isaiah 41:10

But now thus saith the Lord that created thee, O Jacob, and he that formed thee, O Israel, Fear not: for I have redeemed thee, I have called thee by thy name; thou art mine. When thou passest through the waters, I will be with thee; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow thee: when thou walkest through the fire, thou shalt not be burned; neither shall the flame kindle upon thee.—Isaiah 43:1–2

2.   Text Me: “Talk to me often.”

Call unto me, and I will answer thee, and show thee great and mighty things, which thou knowest not.—Jeremiah 33:3

Pray without ceasing.—1 Thessalonians 5:18

3.   Real love: “Demonstrate genuine love to others.”

A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.—John 13:34–35

4.   Blank: “Let me write My awesome plan for your life on you heart.”

For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.—Jeremiah 29:11

5.   Smile: “Enjoy the life I have blessed you with.”

These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.—John 15:11