“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
Often I ask myself, “what compels me to live in the way that I do?” Why do I do the things that I do? Is it the love of Christ that has ignited a passion in my heart? Or is it something else? Is it the love of Christ that compels me? Or is it the love of other things?
If I were to argue with someone, is it the love of Christ compelling me to do so? Or is it my selfish desire to be right that is compelling me? If I feel anger towards someone, is it the love of Christ that is compelling me to feel that anger? Or is it the enemy compelling me to feel that anger?
Over and over again this week I’ve felt compelled to do and say things that I know weren’t from Christ. I can say without a doubt that it’s been one of the most difficult weeks in my entire life. My character has been questioned. My passion has been called a fluke. When you’re under attack, what are you compelled to do? Defend yourself. But throughout this week I’ve learned that my desire to defend myself is not a desire that my God is giving me. I’ve been reminded that, just like 2 Corinthians 5 says, that only Christ should compel me, not the things of this world.
For those of you who have called and sent messages to encourage me, please know that I appreciate you very much! I’ve appreciated the support, but I do ask that if you plan on supporting me or supporting I Love Evelyn, please do so in way that is glorifying to Christ. I don’t think it would helpful to be represented by people who claim the love of Christ but live the opposite way. When Jesus said to love our neighbor, that command extends into all groups of people – regardless of race, sex, or whether or not they are our enemy.
