Day 6: Compelled by Love

VERSE: “For Christ’s love compels us, because we are convinced that one died for all, and therefore all died.  And he died for all, that those who live should no longer live for themselves but for him who died for them and was raised again.” 2 Corinthians 5:14-15

DEVOTIONAL: Think about the last time you felt compelled to do something.  Maybe you gave into an overwhelming urge to eat tacos for lunch, or out of seemingly nowhere you decided to pick up the phone and call a friend you haven’t spoken to in months.  If so, then you understand the power of compulsion.

The Apostle Paul describes such a force as he writes the Corinthian church.  Paul faced incredible hardships for his faith, yet he was never deterred from the mission God placed on his life.  Preaching countless sermons, starting multiple churches, and writing half of the New Testament, Paul was one of the most influential leaders of the church.  So, what was it that drove Paul to reach so many for Christ? 

LOVE! 

Paul’s heart was marked by the irresistible power of Christ’s love.  After coming face to face with Jesus, Paul was no longer compelled to live for himself, but to glorify the One who died for all.  In a similar way, when we recognize the extent of God’s love for us and realize the love God has for those far from Him, the same love that motivated Paul compels us to live for others.

PRAYER: Dear God, thank You for loving us.  I pray New Hope would be a place where people experience the love of Christ, are marked by the love of Christ, and can’t help but be compelled to love others in the name of Christ. Amen.