Today’s Reading: Isaiah 10:1‐11:16, 2 Corinthians 12:11‐21, Psalm 56:1‐13, Proverbs 23:6‐8

Context: Paul is expressing concern that the Corinthian church is not responding to his message favorably.  He is afraid that the church in Corinth thinks he has a selfish motive in his ministry.

1 Corinthians 12:14-15 – Here for the third time I am ready to come to you.  And I will not be a burden, for I seek not what is yours but you.  For children are not obligated to save up for their parents, but parents for their children.  I will most gladly spend and be spent for your souls.  If I love you more, am I to be loved less?

Observations:

• I will not be a burden
• I seek not what is yours but you (I LOVE THIS)
• Illustration: Children are not obligated to save up for their parents, but parents for their children
• I will most gladly spend and be spent for your souls

Apply:  “Father, give me Paul’s heart for the people I minister to.  I want to fully say: ‘I seek not what is yours but you.  I will most gladly spend and be spent for your souls.’”

The Proverbs in our reading today apply directly to this passage.  Read Proverbs 23:6-8.  Are you glad to spend and be spent for the souls of others?