loving well

Sunday, September 23, 2018 (7:33 a.m.)

Holy, Holy God,

Oh most Blessed God, I am here asking You to teach us more about loving well (Philippians 1:9). Your Word tells us repeatedly what Your love looks like. What it is, and what it is not (1 Corinthians 13:4-7).

Living in the world we can so easily become hurt. Hardened. Walled off. It’s only when we’re willing to drop our guard and take the risk of exposing our weaknesses that we stand the chance of experiencing Your healing love.

Thank You Father. Thank You for calling us to You. Thank You for teaching us that the world’s representation of love is not Yours.

The Life Recovery Bible (Book Introduction) tells us Paul’s letter to the Philippians was written to thank and challenge them in remaining true to Christ and joyful in their circumstances. “Wholeness of life, he reminded them, does not come from material things or pleasant circumstances. Genuine joy, meaning, and satisfaction come as we follow Christ and help others grow spiritually.”

How contrary this is to what we so often grow up believing. Our experiences can shape us either positively or negatively. It’s our obedience to You and the Truth of Your Word that determine our ultimate joy.

The apostle Paul shared his secret of contentment with his readers. Through his obedience to You he learned to be satisfied with whatever he had (Philippians 4:11). Thank You for his letters Father. Thank You for Your perfect love that casts out all fear (1 John 4:18).

Teach us to love as You would have us love Father. Oh yes, Dear Father. “Not only much, but well” (Philippians 1:9). Oh how we do love you. Thank You. Amen.

(293 words ~ 8:38 a.m.)