Scriptures
9-11So this is my prayer: that your love will flourish and that you will not only love much but well. Learn to love appropriately. You need to use your head and test your feelings so that your love is sincere and intelligent, not sentimental gush. Live a lover's life, circumspect and exemplary, a life Jesus will be proud of: bountiful in fruits from the soul, making Jesus Christ attractive to all, getting everyone involved in the glory and praise of God. Philippians 1:9-11
Observation
Paul was in prison when he wrote this letter of encouragement to the Philippians. He is indeed one who is selfless, one who think more of others than himself. I particularly like the way how he taught the Philippians to love wisely. I know many uses love either for their own self-interest or out of pure emotion but here, Paul taught them to love appropriately. The love that he magnified is more powerful than just pure "feeling" but it is the type of "self-lessness" love.
The way the world knows about love is always about feeling, selfishness but the love that Paul urged them to pursue is one that is full of wisdom, intention, genuine, tactfulness, being a role model to others, something that even Jesus will be proud of. The love that Paul encourages is one that is self-less, responsible and one that is always caring of someone more than ourselves. The fruits of this love attracts all to the giver of "love" and it is a love that involves the community and a direction to God. Whereas, the love that we know is all about making oneself or the couple happy which disregard others.
Application
Wow. This is so powerful. I will reassess my loving relationships with those around me.
Prayer
Father, I thank you for this wisdom that is more valuable than all the riches of the world. I will continue to seek your ways above all else. Amen!
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