Scripture: “And it is my prayer that your love may abound more and more, with knowledge and all discernment, so that you may approve what is excellent, and so be pure and blameless for the day of Christ.”
— Philippians 1:9-10 (ESV)
Devotion:
In these verses, Paul’s prayer for the Philippians is both a heartfelt desire and a guiding principle for our lives as Christians. He prays that their love would “abound more and more.” This love is not a mere emotional affection but is deeply rooted in the knowledge of God and the discernment that comes from His Word.
As Lutherans, we understand that love flows from faith, which itself is a gift of God. This love is not self-serving but is directed towards others, reflecting the love that Christ has for us. When Paul speaks of love abounding “with knowledge and all discernment,” he emphasizes that our love should be informed by the truth of the Gospel. Love without knowledge can lead to error, and knowledge without love can become cold and judgmental.
Paul’s prayer extends further, seeking that we may “approve what is excellent”—that is, that we discern what is truly good and right according to God’s will. This is not just about making good decisions but about cultivating a heart that seeks after God’s righteousness. In our Lutheran tradition, we acknowledge that this purity and blamelessness come not from our own efforts but from Christ’s work in us. It is His righteousness that covers us, enabling us to stand blameless on the day of Christ.
As we meditate on this prayer, let us ask God to grow our love, deepen our understanding, and sharpen our discernment. In doing so, we live lives that reflect Christ’s love and prepare us for the day when we will stand before Him, clothed in His righteousness.
Prayer: Gracious Father, we thank You for the love You have shown us through Jesus Christ. Help our love to grow, rooted in Your truth and guided by Your Spirit. Grant us the wisdom to discern what is excellent and the strength to live in a way that honors You. Prepare our hearts for the day of Christ, that we may stand before You pure and blameless through the righteousness of Your Son. In His name, we pray. Amen.
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