It was done for God’s glory (v. 17). “Therefore I glory in Christ Jesus in my service to God” (niv). The word translated “glory” carries the idea of “boast, take pride in.” Paul used it before in Romans 2:17, 23; 3:27; 4:2; and 5:2-3, 11 (“joy”). Paul was not bragging about his ministry. He was boasting in what the Lord had done. The apostle did not serve and suffer as he did just to make a name for himself, for he had a much higher purpose in mind. He wanted to bring glory to Jesus Christ, “that in all things he might have the preeminence” (Col. 1:18).