I am married to a man who has taught me so much about building relationships with people. He’s always on the lookout for how he can make someone else’s life better, sweeter, or closer to God. He does that with me, he does it with his friends, and he does that with strangers. When you spend time with someone who has a large heart, the time goes so quickly. They welcome you into their life. They look you in the eye. When you speak, they listen with their ears and their heart.
When I recently read Paul’s letter to the Corinthians, it is obvious that he also had a magnanimous heart towards others. Here’s what he said about his time spent with these people: II Corinthians 12:15 –
And I will very gladly spend and be spent for you…
In other words, I will gladly spend whatever is needed for you. That would include:
- Time
- Money
- Energy
- Effort
- Thought
- Preparation
- Resources
- My very life
Think about those with whom you’ll be spending time with today – your mate, your children, lost co-workers, a friend. Will you GLADLY spend yourself for them? What would that look like if you did? When you’re with them will you be “spent” when you are together? Will you allow yourself to be so connected that you’re “spending” while you’re listening? Will you let your heart love them so deeply that you’ll gladly give whatever it is they need – your full attention, time to pray for them, or even something tangible?
Selfish people really don’t know the blessing they’re missing when they are only concerned about their needs. Let’s be like Paul today and determine to “be spent” with the kind of love that sent our Savior to the cross. He paid the ultimate sacrifice for His friends, giving us the premium example.
Spend for others today and watch for the blessing that will come to your own life!
With love,
