Paul ends this chapter on why a teacher can receive pay, but he doesn't, with the illustration of an athlete who disciplines himself. These thoughts are connected. The reason Paul didn't take funds was probably thinking it might hinder the ministry of the gospel, but it might also hinder him. Paul may have thought that accepting support for ministry would be a hindrance to the work God wanted in him. I believe this is true. It can also be true for everyone else in that there may be some things that might be good and right for others, but not for you. The same thing that another person might enjoy would be destructive for you. This is why the writer of Hebrews says that we need to lay aside everything that may hinder us (Hebrews 12:1). If you're now sure in your life what they might be, ask God or your spouse. God will know, and your spouse probably knows more than you realize, so ask.
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