Don’t all parents soon realize that they must lay up provisions for the children (as Paul writes of in v.14)? A great deal of effort and sacrifice go into laying up for children so they will be well cared for. Think how much Christ spent of Himself for our souls: His whole life!
Likewise, Paul gives up his life for his “children” in the faith.


God’s love has been a costly love, one that truly has given until it hurts. How agonizing it would have been for the Father to put all His wrath on His Son. And how tormenting for the Son to be separated from His Father. The Holy Spirit still grieves each time His love is rejected or ignored.


When we love, we often experience the same sense of being ignored or rejected. But God gives love out “abundantly” no matter what is received in return. Today you may have to give the love of Christ until it hurts. Do not be surprised if it does hurt. But do not be discouraged either, for your Savior and Redeemer joyfully gave everything He had so that He could call you His own.