Pastor Leon’s SOAP: Scripture, Observation, Application, Prayer

November 18: Ps 124, 2Cor 11-13

Scripture: 2Corinthians (NIV) 12:14 Now I am ready to visit you for the third time, and I will not be a burden to you, because what I want is not your possessions but you….

Observation: Paul had given a lot of time and effort in ministry to those in Corinth. He had visited them twice and was about to make a third visit. This is at least his second letter to them. The King James Version says “I seek not yours but you…” Paul was not going to Corinth because of the big offerings he would receive or that people would give things to him. His motive was to see them grow in their faith and glorify God.

Application: In other places Paul clearly writes that it is proper for those who work in ministry to make their living by the ministry. He even received support from others. However at Corinth Paul had joy in making his ministry free. During the years I have lived by the ministry, I have always involved myself in ministries from which I would receive no salary and ministries for which I was not the main leader. I appreciated the volunteer ministry of so many in the churches I pastored, it seemed only proper that I should serve others as a volunteer. The joy of the Lord and the joy of the ministry was the reward.

Prayer: Lord, what a privilege and joy to serve you. Your smile and approval is the greatest of all rewards. Amen

Pastor Leon

Making friends for time and eternity!