Reading Philippians recently, I have found myself pondering over short portions of this incredible book.
One such portion is Philippians 1:9-11.
And it is my prayer that your love may abound more and more, with knowledge and all discernment, so that you may approve what is excellent, and so be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God. [ESV]
I pray that your love will overflow more and more, and that you will keep on growing in knowledge and understanding. For I want you to understand what really matters, so that you may live pure and blameless lives until the day of Christ’s return. May you always be filled with the fruit of your salvation—the righteous character produced in your life by Jesus Christ—for this will bring much glory and praise to God. [NLT]
My heart was first drawn to the point that what Paul prays for this group of people at Philipi is that their LOVE would abound and overflow more and more. A commentary titled The Branch, makes this note. "If you were to ask Paul, ' what does it mean to live a holy life?' he would answer: LOVE"
I read this somewhere else:
“Love illuminates knowledge.“
- This knowledgeable love leads to discernment. (verse 9)
- This knowledgeable love leads to purity. (verse 10)
- This knowledgeable love leads to fruitfulness. (verse 11)
(I added the verses)
Love is the greatest gift of all, given freely to us by God through his son Jesus and his death on that wooden cross. To make atonement for us and close the gap between us and restore relationship with us.
Love is free. Freely given and freely receieved.
Love is secure. It gives and provides stability.
Love is freedom. Living and walking in the shadow of love means we can just be.
Love is sacrificial. Christ is our example.
Love is holy. A sacred space. A preferred choice.
Love is kind. And patient. But so kind.
Love is self-less. It gives a second chance. It chooses healing.
Love is beautiful. It brings joy. It draws out beauty. It’s in all creation.
Love gives space to grow and discern.
Let love abound!
hope of heart 