1 Corinthians 9 "The Cost is the Benefit"

In this chapter Paul talks about how he is an apostle.  He shows how the city of Corinth is an example of his apostleship and how he as an apostle has the right to ask for the things he needs because he has given everything of himself, though he chooses not to.  Paul explains that as an apostle he gives up a lot, it costs a lot to be an apostle.  

Even though an apostle could easily justify asking for what they need because they devote their lives to serving God and spreading his word rather than making a traditional living they rarely do.  They do this to show humility.  Though they are entitled to certain things they do not ask for them because others may need it.  An apostle gives of themselves for the benefit of others.

So far an apostle doesn't seem like a great thing to be but hear is what Paul leads to next; he explains, and I agree, that helping others brings him closer to God himself and helps him follow the commandments.  I would also add that in being an apostle, in my limited experience, even though it is hard and it costs a lot, it wouldn't be as great of a reward if it wasn't.  The fact that being an apostle costs a lot makes the benefits greater. For me the fact that when I give of myself I have less which makes it easier not to rely on worldly things and having less and helping others makes me more humble.  I think I am going to try to focus on that more and look for ways God is leading me in that area of my life.