You may remember the story of the Prodigal Son who when he returned to his father, his father killed the fatted calf and gave a big party. The oldest son who had remained and labored for his father was filled with resentment. He said, “you never gave me so much as a young goat to have a party with my friends.” Paul is the older son here. He has labored his life for the Savior. The Corinthians are the prodigals who have turned back to God. But Paul doesn't resent his lack. He is thankful for their blessings. That is a measure of the true spirit of ministry. It rejoices in the blessings of others always. Paul knows that the church in Corinth has its issues. He could say, “God why are you being so good to them when they are so irresponsible with what they have received?” Instead he gives thanks for God's goodness to them and celebrates those gifts of Grace with the Corinthians.
It is a measure of the Spirit inspiring your ministry is it not? Are you thankful for what God is doing for others? Or are you muttering about not getting so much as a baby goat to have a party with your friends?
Let's look at the Grace Paul celebrates with the Corinthians…
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