Living for Christ, Not Ourselves

Scripture: 2 Corinthians 5:15 
“…and he died for all, that those who live might no longer live for themselves but for him who for their sake died and was raised.”

Devotional Thought -Day 14

What drives your decisions, your direction, and your daily life? For Paul, it was not ambition, comfort, or fear—it was Christ’s love. The apostle explains that Jesus died so that those who are made alive in Him would live for Him. The goal of the cross is not simply that we would be forgiven, but that we would be transformed—liberated from self-centered living to pursue a Christ-centered life.

Paul was overwhelmed by the love Christ demonstrated on the cross. It was not a mere emotional response, but a settled conviction. “The love of Christ controls us,” he wrote, meaning it constrained, directed, and propelled him forward. Paul understood that Jesus died not just for his benefit, but in his place. He knew that to look at the crucified Christ was to see his own sin judged and his old self nailed to the cross. And in the light of that sacrifice, living for himself was no longer an option.

Living for Christ means that every area of life—our plans, priorities, and pursuits—is shaped by our Redeemer’s love. The cross does not just cleanse us; it claims us. The One who died and rose again did not save us so that we could continue living according to our preferences and pleasures. He died so that we might live a new life in joyful surrender to His will.

This verse is not a burden—it’s a breakthrough. It reminds us that freedom is not found in self-indulgence, but in self-surrender. Jesus broke the chains of sin not to leave us in spiritual aimlessness, but to redirect us to a higher calling: living for the glory of the One who died and rose again for us.

So today, ask yourself: What defines your life? Is it driven by comfort, control, or the applause of others? Or is it constrained—captivated—by the overwhelming love of Christ? To live for Him is not a loss but the highest gain. His love is not just your rescue; it is your reason.

Prayer

Lord Jesus, thank You for dying in my place and rising again to give me new life. I no longer want to live for myself. Captivate me with Your love. Empower me by Your Spirit to live each day in surrender and purpose for You. Amen.