“…I will very gladly spend and be spent for you…” — 2 Corinthians 12:15 (KJV)
There’s a kind of joy that only comes when you give. The world tells us joy is found in getting, i.e., more comfort, more success, more recognition, etc. But Scripture flips that idea upside down. Real joy flows from pouring out, not storing up.
When Paul wrote, “…I will very gladly spend and be spent for you…,” he wasn’t talking about casual giving. He was talking about a life poured out for others. The word “gladly” here means “with delight.” Paul found deep satisfaction in serving, even when it required him to sacrifice time, comfort, and energy. Why? Because every act of love drew him closer to Christ, the ultimate Servant.
I think of a woman in my church named Marie. Every Sunday, she’s there before sunrise, brewing coffee, setting up chairs, greeting people with a hug that feels like home. Few know that she works two jobs and battles chronic pain. Yet when asked why she keeps serving, she says, “Because this is where my joy lives — in giving back to the One who gave everything for me.”
Marie understands something many people overlook: joy multiplies when shared with others. When you encourage someone, when you volunteer, when you show kindness to a stranger, you’re reflecting the heart of Jesus — and in that reflection, joy blooms.
Scripture says, “…It is more blessed to give than to receive.” (Acts 20:35). The word “blessed” literally means “happy.” There’s a supernatural happiness that fills your soul when you love others without expecting anything in return. It’s not about applause or being noticed. It’s about knowing that your life is touching someone else’s with the love of God.
If you’ve been feeling spiritually drained, maybe your joy tank isn’t empty — maybe it’s just waiting to be poured out in service. Joy grows through service. Ask yourself:
- Who can I serve today — quietly, sincerely, and with love?
- How can I make service a lifestyle, not just a task?
The secret to lasting joy isn’t in taking more — it’s in giving more of yourself to others, just like Jesus did.
Prayer
Lord, thank You for the joy of serving. Teach me to give with gladness and love without limits. Help me to see every act of service as a way to honour You and reflect Your heart. May my hands bring help, and my service bring joy to others and glory to You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Read: 1 Chronicles 29:14; Proverbs 11:25
Bible Reading Guide: Proverbs 28:7-17; James 4; Ezekiel 38; Ezekiel 39