Paul prays that our love would grow and overflow toward everyone.
“And the Lord make you to increase and abound in love one toward another, and toward all men, even as we do toward you:”1 Thessalonians 3:12 (KJV)
What does “Abounding” mean in 1 Thessalonians 3:12?
Paul prays for the young church in Thessalonica that the Lord would make their love increase and abound. He wants their love to reach beyond the church to all people.
Going deeper
Paul does not just tell the Thessalonians to love more. He prays for it: the Lord make you to increase and abound in love one toward another, and toward all men. The words increase and abound describe growth and overflow, like a river rising over its banks. Notice that love is something God gives and grows. We ask for it. And it is meant to move in two directions, toward fellow believers and toward all people.
That is a good prayer to make our own. We do not have to manufacture love by willpower. We can ask the Lord to increase it in us. Pray it for yourself, and pray it for your family, your church, and your community. Then look for a way to let that love overflow beyond your usual circle this week. Reach out to someone you would not normally include, and let the love God gives you spill over.
Reflect
Whom outside your usual circle could you show love to this week?
Pray
Lord, make me increase and abound in love toward others and toward all people. Let Your love overflow through me. In Jesus' name, amen.
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