V could stand for many things. 

It could stand for Victory.
The Superbowl winners are still celebrating as they get their rings and bank accounts resized.
Presidential candidates are ramping up for the contest of their lives in November and all the news is about who is victorious in primaries and caucuses.

V could stand for Valentines. 

Florists, jewelers, chocolatiers, and card companies want your man to declare his love
with big bouquets, diamond baubles, and fancy boxes of deliciousness
accompanied by an $8.99 greeting card.

How about making V stand for Validate?

Validate means to …
Confirm.
Approve.
Support the truth about something.
Substantiate the value of someone.

What do you think would happen if you and I spent the next week, month, or year validating others?

Not dominating them.
Not flattering them.

What would happen if we deliberately
affirmed, approved, and elevated others?

I have a friend, let’s call her Anna, who did just that.
Instead of constantly contending for her way at work, she engaged in conversations,
listened to other concepts, and agreed to try new ideas.
At home, she quit correcting her husband about the way he organized their bills
and handled the children.  She chose to affirm his efficiency and parenting skills.
Instead of harrumphing in long lines at the grocery store, she began complimenting
counter clerks and cashiers.
At coffee shops, she smiled at the baristas and fellow patrons.
Everywhere she went, she affirmed, approved, and validated people.

You know what?

Anna was happier.
Everyone around Anna was happier.

Victory by Validation.

V is the Roman numeral for 5.
Today, do 5 things to validate the people in your life.
Do it everywhere you go and watch the people light up.

It’s exhilarating!

It’s addicting!

Best of all, it’s contagious!

“V” could stand for any number of things,
but validation is my choice!

Scripture Refresher: Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers. Galatians 6:9-10 (NIV)

Prayer: Oh Jesus, I want to be more like you.  Help me to be a source of affirmation and validation. Be my guide and illuminate opportunities for me to demonstrate your love and kindness all around me. 

P.S. Remember, if your man doesn’t bring you 3 dozen roses and a 2ct. diamond ring hidden in custom made box of chocolates for Valentines Day, look for ways to validate him.