Read Philippians 1:8-11 The Bible says, "Love never fails." (1 Cor. 13:8) It is the most powerful force on earth. Love has created capacity, extended lives, produced opportunities, and established initiatives that otherwise would have never happened. As powerful as the simplest of loves are, Paul reveals a reality about love that we must not overlook. Love has the ability to grow. It is not just a static resource or a mere ideal. It is a living reality that can be increased. In this passage, he reveals two secret ingredients that make love even more potent.
He says "that your love may abound more and more, with knowledge and all discernment."
These two aspects reveal the necessity of approaching our relationships with selflessness. First of all, we have to learn from and about the people we are called to love. (Knowledge). The more you truly know them, the more you can truly love them. Oftentimes, our love gets weary because we are focused on us instead of the recipient of our love.
Second, Paul says we have to use discernment when we love. Love is such an amazing power that if it is not tempered with discernment it can lead to hurt instead of help. What do you mean? Well, my mind is on the mothers who love their children who are addicted to drugs. As a result, they enable them to stay bound. Whereas, the love that 'never fails' will become part of the solution rather than the problem. Love with discernment is perhaps the knowledge with wisdom part. Yes, knowledge has power. But knowledge with wisdom has power that is productive in a positive way. Grow in love today. Get to know your family, friends, and perhaps even your enemies better. Then, use discernment on how you love them!
