According to JoAnne

“Embracing Love’s Symbols: A Devotional Journey with Jesus”

The floriography craze, communicating with the use or arrangement of flowers, was introduced in England in 1717. Flowers have been used throughout history to symbolize a wide range of emotions, sentiments, and meanings. Flowers were also mentioned and used in the Bible to convey deeper spiritual lessons. Some of the flowers mentioned in the Bible were Lilly of The Valley, Rose, Saffron, Star of Bethlehem and Poppy.

Here are some common symbolic meanings associated with different types of flowers:

1. Roses: Different colors of roses convey different emotions. Red roses symbolize love and passion, while white roses represent purity and innocence. Yellow roses often symbolize friendship, and pink roses signify admiration and gratitude.

2. Lilies: Lilies are often associated with purity, renewal, and rebirth. They are also used to symbolize virtue and humility.

3. Daisies: Daisies are commonly associated with innocence, simplicity, and loyal love. They can also symbolize new beginnings.

4. Tulips: Tulips come in various colors, each with its own meaning. Red tulips symbolize love and passion, yellow tulips represent cheerful thoughts, and white tulips convey forgiveness and purity.

5. *Sunflowers: Sunflowers symbolize adoration, loyalty, and longevity. They are often associated with positivity and a sunny disposition.

6. Orchids: Orchids are often associated with beauty, elegance, and strength. They can also represent love, luxury, and refinement.

7. Carnations: Different colors of carnations have distinct meanings. Pink carnations symbolize maternal love, white carnations signify pure love and luck, and red carnations represent admiration.

8. Daffodils: Daffodils symbolize rebirth and new beginnings. They are often associated with springtime and a fresh start.

9. Iris: The iris represents faith, hope, and wisdom. It is often associated with the colors of the rainbow and symbolizes a bridge between earth and heaven.

10. Chrysanthemums: Chrysanthemums are associated with different meanings in different cultures. In general, they symbolize longevity, joy, and optimism.

11. Forget-Me-Nots: As the name suggests, forget-me-nots symbolize remembrance and true love. They are often given as a symbol of friendship and lasting affection.

12. Peonies: Peonies symbolize prosperity, honor, and romance. They are often associated with a happy and blissful marriage.

It’s important to note that flower symbolism can vary across cultures and traditions, and personal interpretations can also play a role. Flowers often communicate sentiments and emotions when given as gifts or used in various contexts.

Flowers were one of the many symbols used in the Bible to convey a message. There are various symbols and objects associated with expressing love for Jesus. Here are 10 other symbols used in the bible and can be used today to share Jesus with others and to remind us of His love.

1. Bread and Wine (Holy Communion) – During the Last Supper, Jesus used bread and wine to symbolize his body and blood, instituting the practice of Holy Communion. This represents believers’ remembrance and love for Jesus. (Matthew 26:26-29, 1 Corinthians 11:23-26)

2. Anointing Oil – Mary of Bethany anointed Jesus’ feet with costly oil, symbolizing her love and devotion. (John 12:1-8)

3. Fragrant Offering – Paul refers to believers’ lives as a “fragrant offering” to God, reflecting their love and commitment to Jesus. (Ephesians 5:1-2, Philippians 4:18)

4. Alabaster Jar – The story of the woman with the alabaster jar who anointed Jesus’ head with oil demonstrates sacrificial love and devotion. (Mark 14:3-9)

5. Foot Washing – Jesus washed his disciples’ feet as an act of humility and love. This teaches us to serve one another in love. (John 13:1-17)

6. Cross and Crucifixion – The symbol of the cross represents Jesus’ sacrificial love, as he died on it to reconcile humanity with God. (John 3:16, Galatians 2:20)

7. Fish and Loaves – The story of the miraculous feeding of the multitude with fish and loaves showcases Jesus’ compassion and provision. Believers can show love by sharing what they have with others. (Matthew 14:13-21)

8. Shepherd and Sheep – Jesus referred to himself as the Good Shepherd who lays down his life for his sheep. This symbolizes his selfless love and care for believers. (John 10:11-18)

9. Fruit of the Spirit – Galatians 5:22-23 lists the fruit of the Spirit, which includes love. Bearing these fruits in our lives demonstrates our love for Jesus and others.

10. Cross-Carrying – Jesus encourages his followers to take up their cross daily, symbolizing a commitment to follow him wholeheartedly. (Luke 9:23)

These symbols and examples highlight various aspects of love for Jesus, including devotion, sacrifice, service, and selflessness, much like different flowers symbolize different emotions or meanings.

Find a symbol listed in this devotional or choose something else to remind you of Jesus love for you. Look for a symbol that will not only remind you of His love, but that reminder will drive you to share the good news of His love with others. The world needs Jesus’s love. Together let’s find a way to share it with those who are lost and feeling unloved and unwanted.

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