“For though I be free from all men, yet have I made myself servant unto all, that I might gain the more.“
— 1 Corinthians 9:19 KJV
Reflection on Today's Verse
Paul says he’s free—he doesn’t owe anyone anything. But he chooses to serve everyone anyway. Why? Because he wants to help people find Jesus. He sets aside what he wants, to focus on what others need.
It’s easy to look after ourselves first. But Paul reminds us there’s a bigger purpose. Following Jesus means caring deeply about the people around us. It means sometimes putting our comfort aside to help someone else know God.
Think about it this way: imagine having something amazing—a treasure that’s changed your life. You wouldn’t want to keep it to yourself. You’d want to share it with others. That’s what Paul is doing here. He’s not thinking about his rights or comforts. He’s thinking about what’s best for the people around him.
Maybe today we can ask ourselves: “Am I willing to let go of my comfort to help someone else meet Jesus?” It’s not always easy, but it’s always worth it. Let’s follow Paul’s example and choose love over comfort.
Personal Prayer
Lord, thank you for reminding me about Paul’s example in this verse. He was free, but he chose to serve others so they could know you. I want that kind of heart too, but sometimes I hold back because I think too much about myself.
Help me to be less focused on my comfort and more on loving people around me. Show me where I’m holding onto things that stop me from serving others fully. Fill me with your kindness and strength, so I can freely share your love with those who need it.
Today, help me live out Paul’s example. Let my actions and words point people to you. Use my life to show others how good you are, even when it’s not easy. Amen.