TODAY'S SCRIPTURE

God can testify how I long for all of you with the affection of Christ Jesus. And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight.  Philippians 1:8-9

Read the entire passage:Philippians 1:8-11

Listen to the chapter: Philippians 1

TODAY'S MESSAGE

Paul begins his letter to new believers in Philippi by sharing his heart full of love and joy for them. He knows they aren’t perfect but need to be uplifted and reassured of his love. He goes on to say he is praying their love matures in knowledge and discernment.

Relationships are hard and understanding Godly love can get confusing. Our culture defines love its own way, based on what is or isn’t universally accepted, and is rarely what the Bible teaches. Loving with biblical insight requires learning what the Bible teaches and trusting the Holy Spirit for illumination and guidance.

Godly love is more than being tolerant—it is knowing what to tolerate and how. It is more than doing what feels right—it is choosing to do what is right regardless of circumstances or feelings. Discerning love transcends ethnic and social biases and seeks to serve God’s desires, not selfish desires. It is giving people what they need, not what they want, and reflecting God’s character in the process.

Senior Pastor Jeff Manion says loving with God’s discernment is “smart love.” It is asking yourself “what is best?” instead of trying to figure out “what is right?”

IN YOUR CHAIR TIME TODAY

Maybe today you are in a difficult situation and not sure the best way to show love. Use this opportunity to learn from God’s Word by going to your Small Group leader, or a wise Christian who can point you toward God’s truth. If you don’t have that option, we want to help. Contact us at btw@adabible.org.

Download a printable PDF of the BTW week here.