Motivation

For Christ’s love compels us, because we are convinced that one died for all, and therefore all died.
2 Corinthians 5:14 (NIV)

Have you ever heard the saying, “hill to die on”? The phrase originally referred to a military stand. It means there is something you’re willing to fight for, even at great cost. 

When Jesus said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me,” He modeled courage and conviction for each one of us. At great personal cost, Jesus shared the truth we needed to hear.

In today’s passage, Paul wrote, “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.” Look at the words of this passage… “compels” and “convinced”. These are words of strong motivation. And where is the motivation coming from?

The first part of the verse explains it: “Christ’s love compels us…” When it comes to sharing your faith, the only true and lasting motivator is the love of Jesus. Fear, guilt, money, power, and popularity can motivate you, but that motivation never lasts. 

Instead of fear or guilt, allow Christ’s love to compel you to share your faith with others. When you love someone, you are willing to do anything for them. You’ll take a chance and put it all on the line because they’re more important than the cost.

You have experienced the redeeming and transforming power of Christ. Your relatives, friends, neighbors, and co-workers can experience that same transformation when they know Jesus. Even if it takes courage and conviction, the single greatest gift you can ever give is a clear explanation of how to connect with God through Jesus Christ. Think of those in your life who do not know. Begin to pray for them now. Ask the Holy Spirit to compel you with His love.

Someone died so that you didn’t have to. That was the hill Jesus was willing to die on. And now His love can be the hill you’re willing to die on, too.

Prayer: Lord Jesus, Thank You for Your heart, that while I was of no use to you whatsoever, You loved me and gave Yourself for me. May Your love compel me to share Your life and love with others. Give me an opportunity this week to reach out to someone and share. In Jesus’ name, Amen.