Abounding Love

The Apostle Paul’s desire for the church in Thessalonica was for their love to increase and abound. He wrote, “And may the Lord make you increase and abound in love to one another and all, just as we do to you, so that He may establish your hearts blameless in holiness before our God and Father at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ with all His saints” (1 Thessalonians 3:12). The love encouraged here is not only for the church then; it is an appeal for us today to live an affectionate and orderly life.

What is this agape’ founded upon? What are its basis and root? It is God and His goodwill towards men (Luke 2:14). The “Divine Love” was brought to humanity through Jesus Christ. In that, while we were still sinners, Jesus died for all (Romans 5:8). When we recall the answer, carrying out benevolence is no longer a heavy burden. Sowing to this love becomes the Christian aim. Illustrating Jesus to others is the result.  

Have you ever heard anyone say, “If Jesus showed up right now in front of me, then I would believe?” Oh, but they have seen Jesus! Our Lord is identified through the lives of every Christian. Yet how will they know this? They will know we are Christian by our love (John 13:35)!

Though this church was praiseworthy already in demonstrating true Christian love, there is always room for growth. The love of Jesus is to overflow from our hearts into the lives of all we encounter. May His love abound more and more in our hearts as we pursue the Lord today and pour out to others.