for the love of Christ controls us, [2 corinthians 5:14]
for the love of Christ controls us.
for the love of Christ contains us.
for the love of Christ compels us.
for the love of Christ impels us.
for the love of Christ hems us in.
for the love of Christ has taken us.
“sunecho, the greek word here for controls, means to be hemmed in on both sides and was used of a traveler in a narrow passage or gorge, with a wall of rock on either hand, unable to turn aside and able only to go straight on. the picture is that of a man pressed on both sides. the idea is not urging or driving, but shutting up to one line and purpose, as in a narrow, walled road.”
God has a grasp upon you. holding you dearly, clutching you closely.
enter by the narrow gate. for the gate is wide and the way is easy that leads to destruction, and those who enter by it are many. for the gate is narrow and the way is hard that leads to life, and those who find it are few. [matthew 7:13-14]
because of his grip on you, you have found the narrow gate. because of his hold on you, the narrow way is possible.
for the mountains may depart
and the hills be removed,
but my steadfast love shall not depart from you,
and my covenant of peace shall not be removed,
says the Lord, who has compassion on you.
[isaiah 54:10]
not only does the love of Christ control you now, but it always will. the hand of God will never open to let you go. his grasp on you is firm and enduring.
oh, church I pray today that you can fall to your face in worship. the God of the universe controls you with his love. love is what drives every move of your father in heaven. draw near to him today and he will draw near to you.
~ holly russell