Abound More and More

 

“And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more

 and more in knowledge and depth of insight. . . .

 filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through

Jesus Christ-to the glory and praise of God.” Philippians 1:9, 11 (NIV)

“And this is my prayer. . .” Paul demonstrated that he cared about the Philippian believers. He desired certain things for the people. He expressed that desire as a matter of prayer. I wonder how many TV ‘evangelists’ can say this about their followers and it be true?

“. . . that your love may abound more and more. . .” Paul’s prayer request is simple. He asks that the love of the believers at Philippi, and those who come later-us, to grow to overflowing in order for those they meet to feel the love of Jesus.

“. . . in knowledge and depth of insight. . . .” This is interesting. Paul’s request is for growth of their (and our) knowledge and insight. We live in what is called the Age of Information. On the floor of my high school at the top of the steps in the main entry was the phrase, “Knowledge is Power.” Taken in a human context, this is true. Paul didn’t say he requested the Philippian Christians to have power or riches. He asked God to give them understanding and discernment.

“. . . filled with the fruit of righteousness. . .” The Apostle asks Jehovah that those believers be sated with the fruit of living holy before God.

“ . . that comes through Jesus Christ. . .” Paul knows that the best traits only come through Jesus. Those of us who face extreme situations caused by others as a way of life have learned this fact.

“ . . to the glory and praise of God.” Paul and all devout believers attempt to live their lives for the Lord God. Have I always done this, No, I have to be sincere, I haven’t. However, God is teaching me every day how to live for Him.