SCRIPTURE: 1 Corinthians 9:1-18

OBSERVATION:
Paul is being criticized by certain people (possibly leaders) at the church in Corinth, accused of being in it only for their money, being materially and personally motivated.
Paul argues that although he has the right to expect certain things, he didn’t claim those rights so as to not hinder the spread of the message of Jesus.
Paul defends the need to support church leaders so that they can advance the spread of the message, using the OT reference to oxen without muzzles!

APPLICATION:
Is my compensation becoming a stumbling block to the message? or the way I handle my finances? or do people see me as motivated by greed or stuff?
Am I driven by the cause of the gospel above all else? is this my greatest concern?
Why do I share the message, do I have the same sense as Paul, woe is me if I don’t?
God has called me to be His messenger, to speak for Him, to let people know He is real, His message is true, and to let nothing else get in the way of this!

PRAYER:
Lord, to be honest I am not always concerned more about Your message as I am about my own well-being and comfort. Forgive me for forgetting my calling, and help me to be driven by Your purpose and the urgent need to share Your message with others. Amen.