Constrained by Love: Yielding to the Power That Transforms
“Either way, Christ’s love controls us. Since we believe that Christ died for all, we also believe that we have all died to our old life.”
— 2 Corinthians 5:14, NLT
There is a divine force that governs the life of every true believer: the love of Christ. It is not passive or optional—it is compelling, active, and transformative. When we come to understand that Christ died for all, we also embrace the truth that we, too, have died to our former way of living. This love should no longer merely inspire us; it must control us.
Yet, we must humbly admit that many of us have not allowed the love of Christ to lead us as it ought. We have, at times, acted out of self-interest, pride, or offense. Therefore, we must repent and seek the Lord’s forgiveness for resisting the control of His love in our daily lives. This is, I believe, one of the critical areas where many in the Church have fallen short of God’s grace.
The love of Christ is not only our example—it is our guide. It must govern our responses, direct our decisions, and shape our character. Every time we choose to respond in love rather than according to the flesh, we crucify the desires of our fallen nature (Galatians 5:24). The love of Christ, working in and through us, is the only power strong enough to destroy the dominion of sin inherited from Adam. This love is not weak—it is the greatest weapon we possess against the powers of darkness. It disarms bitterness, shatters vengeance, and brings healing to brokenness.
Jesus Himself gave us a practical demonstration of this love when He said in Matthew 5:44:
“Love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you.”
This is not mere moral instruction—it is the very essence of Christ’s love in action.
As Paul writes in Romans 12:21, “Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” This is the only true way to conquer darkness: by manifesting the love of Christ through good works and compassion toward all—brethren, Jews, and Gentiles, including those who do not yet believe.
Therefore, let us heed the instruction of 1 Corinthians 10:32: “Do not cause anyone to stumble, whether Jews, Greeks or the church of God.” As followers of Christ, we are called to live above offense, never becoming a stumbling block to others, but a reflection of Christ’s selfless love.
A Prayer of Consecration to Christ’s Love
Father, in the name of Jesus, I bless those who have used me spitefully or done evil against me. Be gracious to them, Lord. Bless their health, their families, and their finances. Show them Your kindness and draw them to repentance.
In the name of Jesus, I break every power of darkness operating over their souls. May the light of Christ shine upon them and transform their hearts.
Today, Father, I make a holy resolve: I yield myself fully to the control of Your love. Lead me, shape me, and fill me with Your Spirit, that I may walk in love every day of my life.
I understand that walking in the love of Christ requires intentionality, sacrifice, and discipline. But this is my greatest weapon. As long as I live in this earthly tabernacle, I will walk in love—because love never fails.