Not often does a verse in the Bible break down into three neat points:

      1. I am free from all men. 

      2. I choose to serve all.

      3. I do this so that I might win more.

The first point is an observation that is true for everyone.  The second point is an expression of choice.  The third point declares an expected outcome.  I have amplified the first two points.  Now let’s amplify the third – the expected outcome.

No one likes to be neglected.  Yet many feel unworthy of another reaching out to help them.  When someone does, it often touches them deeply.

Recently I talked to a man who has attended our church for some time.  He was hurting deeply but had put off asking to meet with me.  During our conversation he related an incident some time ago when I talked to him after a service.  He mentioned that he listened to and appreciated this program.  I thanked him and asked him to pray for me.

This startled him.  He thought to himself that if I as a leader asked someone to pray for me, maybe it was okay for him to ask for help.  It took him some months to bring himself to ask if we could meet.  And before we parted he had prayed to receive Jesus Christ as his Savior.

Though Paul was free from all men, he felt that if he intentionally served others there would be some who would respond and turn to the One who motivated Paul to serve.  He made this choice so that he “might win more.” 

I feel the same.  Do you?  Let me encourage you to reflect on this powerful verse.