Reflection on 1 Corinthians 9:16-23

Scripture
I am not anyone's slave. But I have become a slave to everyone, so that I can win as many people as possible.

Observation
Paul is a purpose-driven christian. He knows why he is on this planet and he lives full-time for that purpose of spreading the good news.

When he's with Jews, he lives as a Jew. When he's with Gentiles, he lives as a Gentile. And always the aim is to preach the gospel.

He was beaten repeatedly, shipwrecked, imprisoned, lowered over the city walls at midnight, and finally executed- but always for the glory of Jesus.

Application
Paul's attitude is always a challenge to me. Sure, I've made some sacrifices over the year, but nothing like Paul.

Not all of us are called to live the same places and the same life-style as Paul.

But we are all called to the same attitude of “whatever it takes” to earn the right to speak into people's hearts.

I say I'm sold out to Jesus, but often I want a bit of Jesus plus a bit of my own ambition. Growing in Jesus means letting go of everything else.

Prayer
Father, I always feel like I'm a bit of a cheat when I measure my own devotion to you against Paul's life and words. Help me to surrender every part of my life into your hands so that you can truly have your way with me. Amen.