Paul gives a personal example of giving something up as a way of showing love for others. As an Apostle who had been responsible for founding the church in Corinth, he had the right to receive money from them in support of his ministry. However, he was concerned people would view him as someone who only preached for financial gain, so he supported himself rather than rely on others. That caused others to think of him as a second-class Apostle. Clearly this was not true, but Paul would prefer to be viewed as second-class than to have the message of Jesus be perceived as a way to take people’s money.
Giving up income for the cause of Jesus is an impressive commitment! Many do that even today. We should honor those who have sacrificed for the cause of Jesus even if their standard of living might be lower.