The Book of Philippians is a treasure trove of how to live as Christians according to God’s plan. God’s plan is Love. GOD IS LOVE. Therefore, believers must walk in the love of Christ and strive to become more like our Savior in thought, word, and deed. February is a month of valentines, hearts, flowers and candy; but where can we find true love?
The Apostle Paul begins his letter to the church at Philippi with blessings of "grace and the peace of God and Jesus to the holy people in Philippi”. Paul goes on to encourage them by assurances that he not only joyfully prays for them, but thanks them for spreading the Gospel of Christ.
“I pray that your love will overflow more and more, and that you will keep om growing in knowledge and understanding. For I want you to understand what really matters, so that you may live pure ad blameless lives until the day of Christ’s return.” ~ Philippians 1: 9-10 NLT
Paul jumps right into teaching about love to the Philippians by showing them how. He blesses rather than curses or finds fault right out of the gate. He thanks them for their efforts to witness their faith to others. Paul also encourages them by praying that they will grow in the love of Christ daily; that they will be fruitful in their salvation and be good witnesses for the Gospel by living exemplary lives.
That is love! Any time we bless, praise, pray for, and encourage others in the way of Christian faith, it brings glory and praise to God. We grow spiritually more like Christ, which pleases God.
"The LORD our God is the one and only LORD. And you must love the LORD your God with all your heart, all your soul, all your mind, and all your strength. The second is equally important: 'Love your neighbor, as yourself.' No other commandment is greater than these." Jesus. ~ Mark 12:29b-31 NLT
So then, love is one of the most important commandments. It is not an option with God. Love is also evidence of fruitfulness.
But the fruit of the Spirit is love. ~ Galatians 5:22 NLT
Thank you for reading this Part 1 of Lessons on Love. I hope it blesses and encourages you that things are not so hopeless that God cannot shed His light of love on your life. Until next time, share the love and enjoy February!