Day 14 — Crushes and Feelings

“O daughters of Jerusalem, I adjure you by the gazelles and does of the field: Do not arouse or awaken love until the time is right.”

— Song of Songs 2:7 (BSB)

Have you ever had a crush? That’s when you suddenly start thinking a boy is really cute, or you get nervous and giggly around him, or you hope he notices you.

Crushes are really common as girls grow up. If you’ve had one, that’s normal! It’s part of growing up and becoming a young woman. And if you haven’t had one, or don’t care about boys at all yet, that’s completely normal too.

There’s a book in the Bible called the Song of Songs. It’s a love poem about a husband and wife. And three times in the book, the young woman gives some wise advice to her friends, “the daughters of Jerusalem”: “Do not arouse or awaken love until the time is right.”

In other words: Don’t rush it. Romantic love is a beautiful gift from God. But it’s a gift meant for the right time, and that time is when you’re much older and ready for it. Trying to wake it up too early can lead to heartbreak, distraction and choices you’ll regret.

So what should you do with crushes now?

• Don’t panic. Having a crush doesn’t mean you have to do anything about it.
• Don’t rush into “dating” or “going out.” At your age, it’s much better to just be friends with boys. There’s plenty of time for romance later.
• Keep your heart focused on God first. Your worth doesn’t come from whether a boy likes you. It comes from being a daughter of the King.
• Be careful online. Never send pictures or private messages to boys, or to anyone, that you wouldn’t want your parents to see.
• Talk to your mom or dad. Tell them about your crush! It might feel embarrassing, but they want to help you and they won’t laugh at you. They’ve been there too.
• Don’t let crushes cause drama. Don’t tease other girls about their crushes, or spread rumors about who likes whom.

Someday, if God has marriage in your future, you’ll be glad you waited and let love wake up at the right time. For now, enjoy being a girl. Build friendships, grow in your faith and trust God with your heart.

Think about it: Why do you think the Bible says not to awaken love too early?

Try this: Talk with your mom or dad about crushes and dating. Ask them what they think the “right time” is, and why.

Dear God, thank You that love is a good gift from You. Help me not to rush it, but to wait for the right time. Keep my heart focused on You, and help me be honest with my parents about my feelings. In Jesus’ name, Amen.