2 Corinthians 5:11-15
For the love of Christ controls us. – 2 Corinthians 5:14a
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We all need motivation to do what we do. Some work hard for a promotion or a pay raise; others do so for their family’s well-being; still others do so to avoid being looked down upon.
Today, Paul tells us where his motivation came from. It was from one source alone: the love of Christ. Paul’s life was completely transformed. From Saul, the persecutor of the church, to Paul, the preacher of the gospel. What caused such a 180-degree change? He says, “The love of Christ compels me.”
The word “compel” in the original text carries the sense of being “driven,” “urged,” or even “pressed.” For Paul, Christ’s love was a force that propelled his life forward, something he could not ignore or resist.
Many of us begin serving the Lord with great passion and zeal. But over time, that initial enthusiasm can fade. When results don’t come as expected, or when ministry feels heavy and unrewarding, fatigue and discouragement set in. We start serving merely out of duty or pressure, to complete the task, to meet expectations, or to avoid disappointing others.
Yet Paul reminds us that the only motivation that can sustain us over the long haul is being moved by the love of Christ. When we regularly remember how deeply we’ve been loved, how patiently He has forgiven and accepted us, how He never gave up on us in our weakness, that love rekindles the joy of serving.
So if you find yourself weary today, take a moment to pray: “Lord, let Your love touch me afresh.”
Paul continues, “He died for all, that those who live might no longer live for themselves.” The love of Christ not only moves us emotionally, but it redirects the very purpose of our lives. It turns us from living “for ourselves” to living “for Him who died and was raised.” The world tells us, “Live for yourself. Chase your own dreams.” But Christ calls out to us, “Deny yourself and follow Me.”
This does not mean abandoning our lives, but redefining what life truly means. Instead of asking, “What can I get from God?”, we begin to ask, “What can I give to God?”
Paul’s life is our example. No matter the persecution, misunderstanding, or hardship, he continued to serve with endurance because he knew it was Christ’s love that compelled him.
Reflection:
What is motivating me in my service today? Is it responsibility, pressure, or the love of Christ? In what areas of my life am I still living for myself, rather than for the One who died and rose again for me?
Prayer:
Dear Lord Jesus, Thank You for loving and redeeming me through the cross. When I grow weary or lose my zeal, let Your love once again stir my heart. Teach me not to live for myself, but for You and for those You love. May the love of Christ be the driving force of my life, that I may serve willingly and walk joyfully each day. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.
Click to read
We all need motivation to do what we do. Some work hard for a promotion or a pay raise; others do so for their family’s well-being; still others do so to avoid being looked down upon.
Today, Paul tells us where his motivation came from. It was from one source alone: the love of Christ. Paul’s life was completely transformed. From Saul, the persecutor of the church, to Paul, the preacher of the gospel. What caused such a 180-degree change? He says, “The love of Christ compels me.”
The word “compel” in the original text carries the sense of being “driven,” “urged,” or even “pressed.” For Paul, Christ’s love was a force that propelled his life forward, something he could not ignore or resist.
Many of us begin serving the Lord with great passion and zeal. But over time, that initial enthusiasm can fade. When results don’t come as expected, or when ministry feels heavy and unrewarding, fatigue and discouragement set in. We start serving merely out of duty or pressure, to complete the task, to meet expectations, or to avoid disappointing others.
Yet Paul reminds us that the only motivation that can sustain us over the long haul is being moved by the love of Christ. When we regularly remember how deeply we’ve been loved, how patiently He has forgiven and accepted us, how He never gave up on us in our weakness, that love rekindles the joy of serving.
So if you find yourself weary today, take a moment to pray: “Lord, let Your love touch me afresh.”
Paul continues, “He died for all, that those who live might no longer live for themselves.” The love of Christ not only moves us emotionally, but it redirects the very purpose of our lives. It turns us from living “for ourselves” to living “for Him who died and was raised.” The world tells us, “Live for yourself. Chase your own dreams.” But Christ calls out to us, “Deny yourself and follow Me.”
This does not mean abandoning our lives, but redefining what life truly means. Instead of asking, “What can I get from God?”, we begin to ask, “What can I give to God?”
Paul’s life is our example. No matter the persecution, misunderstanding, or hardship, he continued to serve with endurance because he knew it was Christ’s love that compelled him.
Reflection:
What is motivating me in my service today? Is it responsibility, pressure, or the love of Christ? In what areas of my life am I still living for myself, rather than for the One who died and rose again for me?
Prayer:
Dear Lord Jesus, Thank You for loving and redeeming me through the cross. When I grow weary or lose my zeal, let Your love once again stir my heart. Teach me not to live for myself, but for You and for those You love. May the love of Christ be the driving force of my life, that I may serve willingly and walk joyfully each day. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.