“For ye remember, brethren, our labour and travail: for labouring night and day, because we would not be chargeable unto any of you, we preached unto you the gospel of God.”
— 1 Thessalonians 2:9 (KJV)
The Apostle Paul sets a powerful example of what true ministry looks like. He reminds the Thessalonians of the sacrifices he and his companions made—working day and night—not to burden the people they served. Paul chose the path of humility, laboring to meet his own needs so that the gospel could be preached free of charge and without suspicion.
Being “chargeable” means to become a burden or dependent on others. Paul refused to take advantage of the believers’ generosity or exploit their faith for personal gain. Instead, he chose to serve, to work, and to lead by example.
This is a message for all of us—especially those who serve in any form of ministry today. We are not called to be lords over God’s people, but servants to His flock. As Jesus said, “The Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve” (Matthew 20:28). If the Savior Himself took the posture of a servant, how much more should we?
Unfortunately, in today’s world, many have lost sight of this. Some ministers chase after material gain, placing heavy burdens on the very people they are meant to uplift. But the Spirit of God is not a begging spirit. He is a generous, giving Spirit who calls us to reflect His integrity, holiness, and selflessness.
When we understand our role not as takers, but as givers—carriers of God’s love and truth—we become lights in a world full of shadows. Our lives should be worth emulating, not for our own glory, but to point others to Christ.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, Thank You for the example of Paul, and even more so, for the example of Jesus, who served with humility and love. Teach me to walk in integrity and selflessness. Guard my heart from the temptation of materialism or manipulation. Let me never be a burden to those You’ve called me to serve, but rather a blessing, a light, and a vessel of Your grace.
Help me to be a faithful steward of Your Word and Your people. Fill me with Your Spirit, that I may serve in truth and love. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Related Scriptures
- Mark 10:45
- 2 Thessalonians 3:8-9
- 1 Peter 5:2-3
- Acts 20:33-35
RELATED DEVOTIONAL
5 April, 2025
Servants, not burdens
“For ye remember, brethren, our labour and travail: for labouring night and day, because we would not be chargeable unto any of you, we preached unto you the gospel of God.”
— 1 Thessalonians 2:9 (KJV)
The Apostle Paul sets a powerful example of what true ministry looks like. He reminds the Thessalonians of the sacrifices he and his companions made—working day and night—not to burden the people they served. Paul chose the path of humility, laboring to meet his own needs so that the gospel could be preached free of charge and without suspicion.
Being “chargeable” means to become a burden or dependent on others. Paul refused to take advantage of the believers’ generosity or exploit their faith for personal gain. Instead, he chose to serve, to work, and to lead by example.
This is a message for all of us—especially those who serve in any form of ministry today. We are not called to be lords over God’s people, but servants to His flock. As Jesus said, “The Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve” (Matthew 20:28). If the Savior Himself took the posture of a servant, how much more should we?
Unfortunately, in today’s world, many have lost sight of this. Some ministers chase after material gain, placing heavy burdens on the very people they are meant to uplift. But the Spirit of God is not a begging spirit. He is a generous, giving Spirit who calls us to reflect His integrity, holiness, and selflessness.
When we understand our role not as takers, but as givers—carriers of God’s love and truth—we become lights in a world full of shadows. Our lives should be worth emulating, not for our own glory, but to point others to Christ.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, Thank You for the example of Paul, and even more so, for the example of Jesus, who served with humility and love. Teach me to walk in integrity and selflessness. Guard my heart from the temptation of materialism or manipulation. Let me never be a burden to those You’ve called me to serve, but rather a blessing, a light, and a vessel of Your grace.
Help me to be a faithful steward of Your Word and Your people. Fill me with Your Spirit, that I may serve in truth and love. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Related Scriptures
- Mark 10:45
- 2 Thessalonians 3:8-9
- 1 Peter 5:2-3
- Acts 20:33-35
