Have you ever loved someone so much that you feel spent? Empty? You pour out. You give. You love them to your utter core. And yet, there is barely a heartbeat in response.
You can feel the pain of Paul today in our text, 2 Cor. 12:11-18. Paul has tirelessly given of his time and energy to woo the heart of the Corinthians back to Jesus. He has prayed for them. Visited them. Sent Titus to minister to them. But the Corinthians had abandoned his leadership for the trendy, false ministry of the “Super Apostles”. You know how much that must’ve hurt?
But Paul doesn’t give up.
Or throw in the towel.
Because true love doesn’t stop.
I will most gladly spend and be spent for your souls. 2 Cor. 12:15
As believers, we are known by our love (Jn. 13:34-35). Love is what sets us apart. It is proof of our faith. It shows Jesus to this lost world. Others notice when you show a never-ever giving up, sacrificial, selfless love to someone who doesn’t deserve it.
The Corinthians questioned Paul’s intentions. They erected a wall. They tried to push Paul away. But here’s our takeaway–you cannot avoid the relentless love of Jesus. His love always prevails! It chases you down.
Are you running from God today? Afraid to let Him love you?
Are you willing to love others like Paul? Sacrificial and selfless?
Be still for a moment and let God love you. Take a moment to ponder these words from Cory Asbury’s song, “Relentless Love.”
O, the overwhelming, never-ending, reckless love of God
O, it chases me down, fights ’til I’m found, leaves the ninety-nine
I couldn’t earn it, and I don’t deserve it, still, You give Yourself away
O, the overwhelming, never-ending, reckless love of God, yeah
