Scholars explain that Paul's language signifies a total and joyful self-giving. He is willing to 'spend' all his resources (time, energy, money) and 'be spent,' which in the original Greek means to be utterly exhausted or even give up his life for the Corinthians' spiritual well-being. Commentators see this as a model of love for all Christian leaders, mirroring a father's devotion to his children.