Scripture: 2 Corinthians 5:11 Because we understand our fearful responsibility to the Lord, we work hard to persuade others. God knows we are sincere, and I hope you know this, too. 12 Are we commending ourselves to you again? No, we are giving you a reason to be proud of us,t so you can answer those who brag about having a spectacular ministry rather than having a sincere heart.
2 Corinthians 6:3 We live in such a way that no one will stumble because of us, and no one will find fault with our ministry. 4 In everything we do, we show that we are true ministers of God. We patiently endure troubles and hardships and calamities of every kind. 5 We have been beaten, been put in prison, faced angry mobs, worked to exhaustion, endured sleepless nights, and gone without food. 6 We prove ourselves by our purity, our understanding, our patience, our kindness, by the Holy Spirit within us,t and by our sincere love. 7 We faithfully preach the truth. God's power is working in us. We use the weapons of righteousness in the right hand for attack and the left hand for defense. 8 We serve God whether people honor us or despise us, whether they slander us or praise us. We are honest, but they call us impostors. 9 We are ignored, even though we are well known. We live close to death, but we are still alive. We have been beaten, but we have not been killed. 10 Our hearts ache, but we always have joy. We are poor, but we give spiritual riches to others. We own nothing, and yet we have everything.
Observation: Paul in both of these passages expresses the reason they preach the Gospel. They preach not for personal profit or recognition, but to bring 'One More," into the Kingdom. It cost Paul everything to proclaim this truth.
Application: We too must preach the Gospel of Jesus Christ! Not for personal profit but for the Kingdom of God. There are so many people that do it for a buck or for a nice house…but Paul preached because he truly desires the Kingdom to grow! I know that taking the Gospel to the people will hurt, but if I truly believe in advancing the Kingdom it will be so worth it. Paul says they are still always joyful. The only complete and fulfilling joy comes from the Lord. We are fully responsible to the Lord, and must continue to persuade others!
Prayer: Lord, there is no greater joy than seeing the veil be removed off of people hearts so they can see your salvation. And anything we must endure of whatever it may cost, it is worth it. Paul spoke of this and I do believe that only this causes great joy. I pray that you help me keep my eyes focused on you and not the problems associated with proclaiming the Gospel. But I would be so focused on the word and salvation that problems do not distract or detour your kingdom ways! Help me be one that does not cause another to stumble and the no one can find fault with my ministry. Keep your word fresh and unveiled to me! In Jesus Name Amen!
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