A Christ-Centered Celebration of Love

Valentine’s Day often focuses on romance, flowers, and heartfelt words. While there is nothing wrong with expressing affection, Christians understand that true love begins with God. Scripture teaches, “We love him, because he first loved us” (1 John 4:19). The highest and purest love is not merely emotional affection between people, but the steadfast, sacrificial love of God revealed in Jesus Christ.

Traditional hymns beautifully capture this divine love. Many of them are perfect for Valentine’s Day because they lift our eyes beyond temporary feelings and point us to eternal love. Below are timeless hymns that celebrate God’s love, Christ’s sacrifice, and the love believers are called to show one another.

1. Love Divine, All Loves Excelling

Charles Wesley’s hymn magnifies Christ as the source of all true love. It celebrates transforming grace that refines and perfects the believer’s heart. This hymn reminds us that divine love is not weak sentiment, but powerful sanctifying grace.

2. The Love of God

Frederick Lehman’s beloved hymn declares that God’s love is immeasurable and everlasting. The famous line about the ocean being ink and the sky parchment paints a vivid picture of love that cannot be exhausted.

3. O Love That Wilt Not Let Me Go

Written by George Matheson during personal suffering, this hymn rests in God’s unbreakable love. It is ideal for Valentine’s Day because it reminds us that God’s love holds fast even when human love falters.

4. Jesus, Lover of My Soul

Charles Wesley expresses intimate trust in Christ. The hymn portrays Jesus as a refuge in storms and a faithful companion. It captures the tender, personal aspect of divine love.

5. Beneath the Cross of Jesus

Elizabeth Clephane reflects on the love shown at Calvary. Valentine’s Day is incomplete without remembering the greatest love ever demonstrated: Christ laying down His life (John 15:13).

6. When I Survey the Wondrous Cross

Isaac Watts brings us face to face with sacrificial love. The hymn concludes with the powerful confession that love so amazing demands our soul, life, and all.

7. My Jesus, I Love Thee

William Featherston’s hymn is a simple yet profound declaration of love for Christ. It emphasizes devotion that continues into eternity.

8. How Deep the Father's Love for Us

Though more modern in origin, it carries the theological depth and reverence of traditional hymnody. It reflects on the Father’s love demonstrated in giving His Son.

9. And Can It Be That I Should Gain?

Another Charles Wesley masterpiece, marveling at redeeming love. The astonishment that Christ died for sinners is central to understanding true love.

10. There Is a Fountain Filled with Blood

William Cowper’s hymn focuses on cleansing love. It reminds us that love is not only affectionate but redemptive.

11. I Stand Amazed in the Presence

This hymn centers on the wonder of Christ’s love for sinners. The repeated expression of amazement keeps the focus on grace.

12. More Love to Thee, O Christ

Elizabeth Prentiss wrote this hymn out of personal grief. It expresses a longing for deeper love toward Christ, which is the heart of Christian devotion.

13. Fairest Lord Jesus

This hymn exalts Christ above all earthly beauty. Valentine’s Day often celebrates outward beauty, but this hymn directs admiration to the Savior.

14. O the deep, deep love of Jesus!

Samuel Trevor Francis describes Christ’s love as vast and boundless, like a mighty ocean. It is rich in imagery and deeply comforting.

15. Saviour, Like A Shepherd Lead Us

Though often associated with guidance, it reflects tender, protective love. It highlights Christ’s care for His flock.

16. Blest Be the Tie That Binds

John Fawcett’s hymn celebrates Christian fellowship. Valentine’s Day is not only about romantic love but also about the love shared among believers.

17. The Church’s One Foundation

This hymn reminds us that Christ loved the Church and gave Himself for it (Ephesians 5:25). It broadens our understanding of love beyond the individual.

18. O Perfect Love

Often sung at weddings, this hymn prays for love that reflects Christ’s purity and strength. It is fitting for marriages and for any believer seeking godly love.

19. Come, Thou Fount of Every Blessing

Though centered on grace, the hymn overflows with gratitude for God’s pursuing love.

20. Amazing grace! (how sweet the sound)

Grace is love in action. This hymn testifies that God’s love rescues sinners and keeps them until the end.

A Better Valentine’s Focus

Human love is a gift from God, but it is never meant to replace Him. Earthly relationships flourish best when rooted in Christ’s love. On Valentine’s Day, churches and families can sing hymns that celebrate:

• God’s steadfast covenant love

• Christ’s sacrificial love at the cross

• The Spirit’s work in producing love in believers (Galatians 5:22)

• The call to love one another sincerely (1 Peter 1:22)

The greatest love story ever told is not found in a greeting card but in the gospel. “God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:8).

This Valentine’s Day, let the church sing not merely of romance, but of redemption. Let our songs rise in gratitude to the One whose love never fails. HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY!