“And this I pray, that your love may abound yet more and more in knowledge and in all judgment.” – Philippians 1:9
Paul prayed fervently for the Philippians every chance he got. They were one of the churches that supported him as he journeyed across the nations to spread the gospel. They had even sent Epaphroditus to Paul, who carried with him many gifts for the missionary. Paul loved the Philippians, and he experienced their love time and again. But they were being persecuted for their faith. Knowing the dangers ahead of them, Paul prayed specifically that their love would abound.
He saw two obstacles in their way that would prevent them from loving the way God commands us to love. The first was experience. The word he used can be translated “first-hand knowledge.” As the Philippians were mistreated and betrayed by friends and neighbors, their love was going to be tested. Either their experience would harden their hearts, or they would overcome with unconditional love.
The truth is when someone hurts you, your perception of them changes. That’s human nature. We love those who love us and hate those who hate us. But that’s not the way God works. He loves in spite of the circumstances.
God wants you to love without restraint. Regardless of what someone has said or done to you, love them. I think of Christ on the cross, as he turned to heaven and asked God to forgive the men who drove the nails into his hands and feet. That’s so different from what the world teaches us. No matter the person and no matter the circumstance, choose to let your love abound and exceed expectations. Those who hurt you won’t expect you to be kind. Let your actions be the shining light that shows them the love of God.