philippians 1:3-11

The New King James Version Chapter 1

3 I thank my God upon every remembrance of you, 4 always in every prayer of mine making request for you all with joy, 5 for your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now, 6 being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ; 7 just as it is right for me to think this of you all, because I have you in my heart, inasmuch as both in my chains and in the defense and confirmation of the gospel, you all are partakers with me of grace. 8 For God is my witness, how greatly I long for you all with the affection of Jesus Christ.

9 And this I pray, that your love may abound still more and more in knowledge and all discernment, 10 that you may approve the things that are excellent, that you may be sincere and without offense till the day of Christ, 11 being filled with the fruits of righteousness which are by Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God.

1:9 “That your love may abound.” The word “abound” (perisseuo) means to “overflow, to continue to increase.” Paul desires that they will not cease to grow in grace and truth. “In knowledge and … discernment.” Our love for God and for others increases as we gain greater insight into His Word. This love is not sentimental but is discerning. This involves insight, perception, and skillful application of God’s word to daily life. We do not throw our pearls before swine (Matt. 7:6).