As we continue our series in 2 Corinthians, we come to this passage in which Paul writes about some of the hardships he has undergone for the sake of the gospel, and specifically to bring the gospel to Corinth and the people there. While Paul is defending his ministry and reputation to the Corinthians, what he really wants them to be reassured of is his love for them, and through that, God’s love for them. That is why he and those with him have been willing to undergo these hardships. As we serve the Lord we also need to do so as a labor of love. This service isn’t always easy, and the ones we are serving might not always be easy to serve, but our motivation to persevere in this service flows out of knowing God’s love for us, and wanting others to know this love as well.