ABOVE THE NORMAL. Philippians 1:9-11 In these verses, Paul prays for those with whom he has fellowship in the Gospel. His request begins with a desire for abundant love that surpasses what is ordinary and results in righteous living for the glory of our Lord Jesus. Genuine love requires growth and maturity, which are evident in knowledge, practical discernment, and sensitivity. This kind of love is not sentimental but rooted and grounded in knowledge, wisdom, and understanding that are based on the mind and senses. Unconditional commitment endures because it does not depend on unstable emotions that people often mistake for love.
Believers who share their lives with other saints are interested in the well-being and blessings of others. We can't help this; it is part of the new nature God has given us. There is a family feeling toward those God has saved and with whom we have fellowship. The fellowship of life we share with any believer we meet gives us joy, knowing that God is working in grace all over the world. There is also the fellowship of light with believers committed to the word of God and the practices of a scripturally gathered assembly.
Paul was seeking spiritual growth among the believers at Philippi. His prayer for abundant love in them was not for superficial emotional attraction that constantly shifts. The reference to love is the love of God that has been "shed abroad" in our hearts. The development of love to its fullest extent is what Paul, the servant of Jesus Christ, desires for the believers. When something is abounding, it continues to grow.