< Back

Read: Philippians 1:9-11
Listen: Philippians 1

Paul writes a letter of deep affection to the church in the city of Philippi. He has walked with them for ten years, sharing life and faith. He knows their joys and tensions—and he knows they have relational struggles. The church community faces conflicts that threaten its unity. Paul doesn’t simply instruct them on how to behave. He talks to God about their struggles and writes a prayer asking God to help them grow increasingly in love for one another.

In another letter to the Corinthians, Paul teaches us that love is more than a feeling—it’s an action. It’s how we treat others when the feeling isn’t there. Paul defines love as a way of treating people: patient, kind, not easily angered, and never keeping score (1 Corinthians 13). This kind of love isn’t something we can manufacture on our own. Paul’s answer isn’t to try harder—it’s to pray. To rely on God to give us what we need, to love as he loves, and to persevere when it doesn’t come easily. We can pray for each other that by God’s strength alone we will overflow in love for one another.

PRAYER DAY #29: Pray for others in your life to grow in this kind of abounding love. Think through people in your family, your small group, your church community. Use this prayer: “Gracious Lord, please provide _____________ with overflowing love, guided by knowledge and insight, resulting in honor and praise to you.”