Category Archives: Love

Affection, Bible, Greetings, Hugs, Love, Scripture

GREETINGS ALL AROUND

PHILIPPIANS 4:21

“Greet every saint in Christ Jesus. The brothers who are with me greet you.”

“How’s it going?” “Jambo!” “Aloha!” “Hola!” “Hello!” In whatever language you choose, we all greet each other in some way. Some do it with a slap on the back or a hug (that’s my preference), while others just throw up a hand and wave. We sign our letters and texts with greetings. Today, when you see someone you know, take notice of how you greet each other.

Paul continues to close down this letter and like in so many of his epistles, he ends by sending greetings or giving direction on how we should greet each other. The Topical Lexicon says, “No writer employs the verb more than Paul. His letters end with chains of individual names, each preceded by ‘Greet’ (Romans 16:3–16; Colossians 4:15). Through these personal salutations Paul:

  1. Affirms the worth of co-laborers.
  2. Models inter-congregational affection (‘All the brothers here send you greetings,’ 1 Corinthians 16:19-20).
  3. Demonstrates doctrinal unity—greeting flows from shared confession, not mere sentiment.”

APPLICATION

One of my favorite verses on “greetings” is Romans 6:16 which reads, “Greet one another with a holy kiss.” I have friends in other cultures who literally do that. They grab you and kiss you on your cheeks. It’s not meant to be sexual in any way. It is just a greeting in their culture. This was Paul’s culture. A sign of affection towards a brother or sister in Christ displayed your love for them.

In Matthew 5:43-48, where Jesus is talking about loving our enemies, He gives some advice about greetings. He basically tells us to greet everyone, even our enemies. He doesn’t say to fake it, just greet. I know people in churches who won’t speak to some people because of something they said to them decades ago. Family members will stop talking and greeting because of hurt feelings. This is not scriptural and only harms the body of Christ.

So, whether you say “Howdy” or “Hello,” say it with gusto. Say it with meaning. Say it in the name above all names. Greet each other warmly. Look people in the eyes and let them know you see them and appreciate them. “Hello” goes a long way sometimes.

Thank You, Lord, for seeing me and saying hello each and every morning.

You can make an investment in our ministry at www.twr.org/carl-willis

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Bible, Home, Longing, Love, Scripture

A DEEP LONGING

PHILIPPIANS 2:26

“because he was longing for you all and was distressed because you had heard that he was sick.”

I normally really enjoy my trips overseas, especially to my second home of Kenya. I have such dear friends and colleagues there. However, my last trip was a long one and I began to long for home. I missed my wife and my new grandson. It was the first trip that I can remember that my wife also missed me greatly, lol. Seriously, she had not been feeling well so she really wanted me home. I pledged then to not make these trips last more than two weeks from now on.

Homesickness is a real thing, and Epaphroditus experienced it while he was with Paul. As Paul mentions here in today’s verse, Epaphroditus had fallen sick, and word had reached the Philippian church about this. He was “longing for” his home and his church family. He was committed to being with Paul, but his heart was pulling him homeward.

APPLICATION

Paul had used this word for “longing” earlier in this letter (1:8) when he said, “For God is my witness, how I long for you all with the affection of Christ Jesus.” So, Paul understood Epaphroditus’ desire to return home. He did not begrudge him that. In fact, Paul sends him home. He doesn’t just let him go. He gave Epaphroditus a mission to accomplish – return home and bring news of me to the church.

But I really like how Peter uses this word in 1 Peter 2:2. “…and like newborn babies, long for the pure milk of the word, so that by it you may grow in respect to salvation,…” That should be our true longing, amen? The word “longing” means to have an intense yearning for something. Do you have that kind of desire for God’s Word?

My grandson has been taking his mother’s milk since he was born. Now that he is ten months old, he has been introduced to other foods, but that mother’s milk is still nourishing him each day. He needs that to grow strong. The “pure milk of the word” will nourish and sustain you. Whether you are longing for your physical home, like I was last year in Africa, or your heavenly home, long more for His Word. That is what will lead and guide you here on earth.

Lord God, I do long for my heavenly home but give me a stronger yearning for Your Word.

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Bible, Joy, Love, Purpose, Scripture, Unity

HOW TO MAKE COMPLETE JOY

PHILIPPIANS 2:2

“make my joy complete by being of the same mind, maintaining the same love, united in spirit, intent on one purpose.”

I really like making people feel full of joy. That might be done by surprising them with a gift or a special treat. It might be done by saying the right thing at the right time. It might be done by just showing up unexpectedly. However it is done, the expression on their face also gives me joy. You see, I receive joy by giving joy.

Paul is asking the Philippians to make him full of joy by doing some things to and for each other. Their efforts weren’t directed at him, per say, but he received joy in hearing of their treatment towards each other. Isn’t that what a mentor wants? He or she wants to see them live out what they have been taught. Let’s look at what Paul was asking.

APPLICATION

First of all, he says he wants them to be “of the same mind.” The Greek word here can actually mean to care for or to seek. Paul was asking them to truly think about each other and what was best for each other. It was a heart thing, not just a mind thing.

Then Paul asks them to maintain the same love. The original language literally says “having the same love.” What did that mean? Well, the key is the word “love.” It is the agape love which we know is God’s benevolent love. That love is always looking out for what is best for the other person. It’s a giving love, a sacrificial love.

Next, Paul asks them to be “united in spirit.” The Greek word here is sumpsuchos which is only used right here. Stong’s Lexicon says this, “Sumpsuchos is used to describe a unity of spirit or being of one mind. It conveys the idea of being in full accord or having a shared purpose and mindset. In the New Testament, it is often used to encourage believers to maintain unity and harmony within the body of Christ, reflecting a collective commitment to the teachings and mission of Jesus.”

Finally, Paul says for the Philippians to be “intent on one purpose.” What you don’t see in the English is Paul uses the exact same word he used earlier when he said to have the same mind. He must have really wanted to stress this point. Be like-minded. Agree on a purpose. Work together.

When we do these things we bring joy to our mentors, but we also bring joy to the Lord. Can you spread joy today? Do these things and you too will be full of joy.

Father, help me today to spread the joy of Jesus in the way I treat others.

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Bible, Defense, Love, Prison, Scripture, Witnessing

OUT OF LOVE

PHILIPPIANS 1:16

“the latter do it out of love, knowing that I am appointed for the defense of the gospel;”

Why do we do the things we do for others? I have been helping my wife care for our 9 month old grandson these past several months. Let me say first and foremost what a privilege that is. I believe grandparents have a higher calling for this. My wife and I know that we are not just babysitting. We are investing in a brand new life who is part of our legacy. Along with his parents and other grandparents we are pouring our lives into him to help make him into a godly man, husband, father, etc.

Paul continues his line of reasoning, tying this verse back to the last phrase in the previous verse, “but some also from good will.” There’s a little Greek word that does not appear in this translation. It’s men which can be translated as “indeed” or “on the other hand.” It’s a word written to draw a contrast to another statement. In this case, Paul was contrasting those who were preaching for ill reasons against those who did it out of love, God’s agape love, benevolent love, what is good for others.

APPLICATION

What have you done out of love for others? Now, before you answer that, let me clarify. What have you done out of love for others knowing you will receive nothing in return? Hmmm, that puts a different slant on it, doesn’t it? It is easy to love when we know that love will be reciprocated. These Philippian believers who were preaching out of love were doing this to aid Paul’s ministry and further the Gospel, knowing that 1) their lives were endangered by doing so and 2) they may never see the fruit of their labors.

They were doing this because of what they saw Paul doing – defending the Gospel. The Greek word for “defense” is apologia where we get our word apologetics. Strong’s Lexicon says this word “refers to a formal defense or justification of one’s beliefs, actions, or position. It is often used in the context of defending the Christian faith against accusations or misunderstandings.”

It was really out of love for Jesus that Paul did this and now why the Philippian believers were doing this. They stood tall and proud to proclaim the good news of Jesus Christ to whomever would listen. Are we as bold? Do we do it out of love? Do your own self-assessment. I’ve done mine and I know I have room for improvement.

O Lord, give me a heart full of the love of Jesus that just overflows on others.

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Bible, Blameless, Love, Scripture, Sincerity

SINCERE AND BLAMELESS

PHILIPPIANS 1:10

“so that you may discover the things that are excellent, that you may be sincere and blameless for the day of Christ;” 

I hate to admit it, but I don’t think I would have been described as “sincere” and “blameless” when I was growing up. I wasn’t a big liar but would definitely lie if I felt a need to do so. And I wasn’t blameless in anything. Bottom line – sin ruled my life. I lived to please my own desires and didn’t really think about how that might affect someone else.

Paul is still in his opening remarks to the Philippian believers. In fact, in verses 3-11, he is telling them how he is praying for them and how much he loves them. Today’s verse is near the end of that introduction. He continues the thought from verse 9 (read yesterday’s blog) and tells them why he is praying for their love to be overflowing. We are going to look at two reasons Paul listed.

APPLICATION

First, Paul says “that you may be sincere…” The Greek word is eilikrinés which “describes something that is genuine, without hidden motives or deceit. In the New Testament, it is used to describe a purity of heart and intention that is transparent and unblemished when exposed to the light of truth.” (Strong’s Lexicon) It is only used one other time in Scripture. In 2 Peter 3:1 we read, “Beloved, this is now the second letter I am writing to you in which I am stirring up your sincere mind by way of a reminder,”. 

Then Paul says in today’s verse, “and blameless.” “Blameless” is the Greek word apropos. It “is used in the New Testament to describe a state of being free from blame or offense, particularly in the context of one’s conduct and interactions with others. It implies a life lived in such a way that does not cause others to stumble in their faith or moral walk. This word emphasizes the importance of integrity and moral uprightness in the life of a believer.” (Strong’s Lexicon)

It is used only two other times in the New Testament. First in Acts 24:16 it says, “In view of this I also do my best to maintain a blameless conscience both before God and before other people, always.” And then over in 1 Corinthians 10:32 Paul uses it again. “Do not offend Jews or Greeks, or the church of God;”

So, ask yourself if you are living in such a way that your life could be describe as sincere and blameless. Could that be written on your gravestone when you die? Would those words be used to describe you in your eulogy? Oh, what a legacy to leave – a sincere and blameless life.

Father, help me live sincere and blameless this day.

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Affection, Bible, Desires, Love, Scripture, Witness

FOR GOD IS MY WITNESS

PHILIPPIANS 1:8

“For God is my witness, how I long for you all with the affection of Christ Jesus.” 

“So help me God” used to be part of the swearing in of any witness in a court of law in the United States. Many courts have since deleted that phrase due to the removal of God from our justice system. A vow to God used to be the highest degree any man could swear by. Whether it is still done or not, that is still the highest level by which anyone could vow. Whether people believe it or not does not change that fact.

Paul uses this phrase in other epistles. In Romans 1:9, he says, “For God, whom I serve in my spirit in the preaching of the gospel of His Son, is my witness as to how unceasingly I make mention of you,” In 2 Corinthians 1:23 he says it again. “But I call God as witness to my soul, that to spare you I did not come again to Corinth.” You can see similar statements in 2 Corinthians 11:31, Galatians 1:20 and 1 Thessalonians 2:5 and 10. Paul did not write this lightly. He knew God was his witness in all things.

APPLICATION

God is still a witness to all we do, whether good or bad. “As God as my witness” should be true for all believers. We, above all people” should realize He is present in all our decisions, all our words and all our actions. To think otherwise would be to disregard His sovereignty in our lives.

But what was Paul claiming God was a witness of? It was how he longed for these Philippian believers with the affection of Christ. The Greek word for “longed for” is epipotheó, which comes from two Greek words, epi and potheó. Epi is used to intensify the word it is connected to. Potheo means to long for or desire. So, this compound word means to intensely long for. Paul had a deep desire for these brothers and sisters in Christ.

Do you have that kind of desire for others’ benefit? Can you honestly say before God this is true? When you tell someone you love them in Jesus you should really mean it. Don’t do lip service. Remember that God is your witness in all things. Do it all to honor Him for He is worthy of all honor and praise. Amen?

Lord God, help me love others honestly with the love of Jesus today.

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Bible, Father, Love, Pleasure, Scripture

THE FATHER’S PLEASURE

COLOSSIANS 1:19

“For it was the Father’s good pleasure for all the fullness to dwell in Him,” 

It is in children’s DNA to want to please their fathers. There’s just something about hearing your dad say, “Proud of you, son.” I can remember growing up seeking my dad’s approval. Whether it was catching the biggest fish or bagging the most doves, I wanted my dad’s approval. I know he was proud of me. He told me on several occasions. It always moved me deeply.

We should have the same desire to please our Heavenly Father. But wait, look at the verse today. It says, “it was the Father’s good pleasure for all the fullness to dwell in Him.” The Father did something for His Son which gave Him pleasure. He does the same for us today. It gives the Father pleasure to fill us with His Holy Spirit. He is the One who indwells us now, and it pleases Him.

APPLICATION

Listen, you don’t have to do things to gain God’s love. However, when we do things that honor Him, I believe it gives Him pleasure. In Matthew 3:17, we read what God said about His Son. The same word is used there as we see in today’s verse. “and behold, a voice from the heavens said, ‘This is My beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased.’”

We can best please our Heavenly Father by living a life that honors Him. Just as we do not want to do anything to dishonor our earthly fathers, we should strive every day to live honorably, pleasing Him. We don’t do it to earn His pleasure. We do it because we know it will. Get the difference?

How will you live today to honor Him? You know you can hear Him say, “This is My beloved child, with whom I am well pleased.” Think of the example you are showing your children or grandchildren. Remember, He is pleased with you because He loves you.

Father, I want to live today in a way that pleases You.

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Bible, Eternity, Faithfulness, Love, Scripture

SUPERNATURAL SUPERGLUE

COLOSSIANS 1:17

“He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together.” 

Have you ever used superglue? To the experienced user, it is a wonder glue. It can hold just about anything together. Therein lies the problem. If you are a first time user, you may just glue things together that you don’t want glued together. You have to be careful with it because it sticks really good and really fast. I have the mistakes to prove it.

The good thing about God’s superglue is it is always applied perfectly. Why am I talking about God’s superglue? Well, just take a look at the verse today. The last part says, “in Him all things hold together.” The Greek word for “hold together” has a deeper meaning than just holding together two things. It has the idea of standing with someone, of commending someone. In the Greek world, letters of introduction on someone’s behalf were a way of commending someone and saying, “I stand with this person.” That’s what God does for us.

APPLICATION

This same Greek word is used in Romans 5:8 where it says, “But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” God stands behind His love for us, even when we didn’t deserve it. That’s some mighty powerful superglue, right? I was pretty sleazy and undeserving before His love was applied to me. But it still stuck.

In 2 Corinthians 10:18 we see that word again. “For it is not the one who commends himself that is approved, but the one whom the Lord commends.” It’s interesting that the word is used both positively and negatively in this verse. You can’t commend yourself. You are only approved when the Lord commends you. In other words, your own brand of superglue won’t stick. But God’s will.

Are you feeling sticky yet? All this talk about superglue may seem tacky (pun intended), but I want you to understand how firm a grip God’s love has on you once it is applied. You have to ask for the glue, though. God won’t just squirt you down with it. Once He does you will never be separated from Him again. You are bound forever. Hallelujah!

O Lord, thank You for applying Your superglue of love in my life.

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Bible, Holy Spirit, Information, Love, Scripture

INFORMER

COLOSSIANS 1:8

“and he also informed us of your love in the Spirit.”

In law enforcement people are often recruited as Confidential Informants. These are people who are usually involved in something illegal, are busted by the law and are “turned” to provide information about crimes. CIs are not the most trustworthy bunch. After all, they come out of the crime world themselves. They can, however, give information that can prevent future crimes or lead to the arrest of others.

Epaphras was NOT a CI. He was informing on the Colossian church to Paul while they were in prison together, but his news was not going to get anyone arrested. His information was going to give Paul joy. Look what he shared – their “love in the Spirit.” Now, that may not seem like much, but it was. These believers had learned to love as Christ loves. They were loving each other in the midst of potential persecution. They were there for each other. That must have truly warmed Paul’s heart.

APPLICATION

Paul didn’t always get good news about churches. In 1 Corinthians 1:11 we read, “For I have been informed concerning you, my brothers and sisters, by Chloe’s people, that there are quarrels among you.” How embarrassing! Don’t you think these believers were made to feel ashamed when they received this letter from Paul. You may be required at some point to share some less than flattering news about a brother or sister in Christ, in order to protect them and the church. Weigh that decision heavily. Seek godly counsel before doing so.

Do you know who else informs us of things? Jesus! Look at 2 Peter 1:14. “knowing that the laying aside of my earthly dwelling is imminent, as also our Lord Jesus Christ has made clear to me.” Jesus still speaks to us – if we are listening. He will reveal to us or inform us of things we need to know. That make come in a variety of ways – prayer, Bible study, other believers, quiet listening or circumstances. So, stay tuned in to His frequency to get your daily reports, lol.

What do you want to know about God? Ask Him! He’s not keeping secrets from us. He may not reveal everything to you at once. That’s how it’s been in my life. He usually gives it to me piece by piece because He knows how much I can handle. He may give you a bigger chunk. God wants to share with you His plans for your life. Once you ask and receive, do what He says. Amen? Amen!

O Lord, I can rely on the truth of Your information. All You speak is truth.

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Bible, Grace, Incorruptible, Love, Scripture

GRACE BE WITH ALL

EPHESIANS 6:24

“Grace be with all those who love our Lord Jesus Christ with incorruptible love.”

Today we don’t use the same greetings and farewells that were used in biblical times. For instance, Paul says in 2 Corinthians 13:12 to “Greet one another with a holy kiss.” Just try that today here in Tennessee. You would probably get slapped, punches or sued. Culture determines certain behaviors.

Paul uses these words in a lot of his letters. Yesterday, we saw him mention peace and love. In today’s verse, it’s all about grace. What did Paul mean when he said, “Grace be with all…”? Well, grace means getting what you don’t deserve. Paul knew these Ephesians. He had spent a considerable amount of time with them. He wanted to remind them as he signed off this letter that nothing is more important than the grace of God and they can show that by loving their Lord Jesus with all their heart.

APPLICATION

Paul wishes grace on us all if… There’s a condition here. Did you catch that? He said, “with all those who love our Lord Jesus Christ with incorruptible love.” How do you love someone without corruption? Well, the key is in the Greek word used here for “incorruptible.” It means “lacking the very capacity to decay or constitutionally break down.” (HELPS Word studies)

That word is used in 1 Corinthians 15:42 to describe our heavenly bodies. “So also is the resurrection of the dead. It is sown a perishable body, it is raised an imperishable body;” We are to love our Lord with a love that will never break down. That will never perish. How is that possible? Because when we accept Jesus as our Savior and Lord and live according to His will, His love fills us to overflowing. It is His love reflected back to Him, whom we know is definitely incorruptible.

Let’s ask the hard question. Do you love others that way? Well, now Carl, you are just meddling. Maybe I am. But I want to encourage you to love others, especially those closest to you with this incorruptible love. After all, He gives you His love to share with others. You are just the vessel He uses to express Himself. So, love like Jesus. Give grace like Jesus.

Oh, Father, thank You for giving Paul these words in this letter to encourage me to give grace and love others

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