12 Brothers and sisters, I want you to know that the things that have happened to me have actually advanced the gospel. 13 The whole Praetorian Guard and everyone else knows that I’m in prison for Christ. 14 Most of the brothers and sisters have had more confidence through the Lord to speak the word boldly and bravely because of my jail time. 15 Some certainly preach Christ with jealous and competitive motives, but others preach with good motives. 16 They are motivated by love, because they know that I’m put here to give a defense of the gospel; 17 the others preach Christ because of their selfish ambition. They are insincere, hoping to cause me more pain while I’m in prison. 18 What do I think about this? Just this: since Christ is proclaimed in every possible way, whether from dishonest or true motives, I’m glad and I’ll continue to be glad. (Philippians 1:12-18, CEB)
Why do you do the things you do?
Is it because you are moved by love, or is it to advance your own agenda?
We sometimes do things to intentionally hurt others or to make our way easier. And in the end those who are following Jesus will see these events work in their favor.
Paul was in prison and there were some preaching the gospel of Jesus to hurt Paul, but their preaching helped people come to believe, so they didn’t hurt Paul but they helped Jesus.
Live for love. That is a true treasure.
Loving People. Loving God.