The Greatest Commandment: Loving God First

As we explore this month’s theme of love, it’s only fitting to begin with the foundation of all true love—the love of God. In a world filled with distractions and competing loyalties, Jesus calls us back to the essence of what it means to truly live: to love God with every fiber of our being.

“And he said to him, ‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the great and first commandment.'” —Matthew 22:37-38 (ESV)

Our highest calling is to love God wholeheartedly, allowing His love to transform every aspect of our lives.

The command to love God with all our heart, soul, and mind encapsulates who we are. It’s not just about affection—it’s about devotion, alignment, and surrender. When Jesus highlighted this commandment, He wasn’t adding a new rule to follow; He was revealing the key to a fulfilled and purposeful life. Loving God wholeheartedly means centering our emotions and desires on Him. With all our souls, we align our will and deepest commitments with His purposes. And with all our minds, we engage our thoughts and intellect to pursue His truth.

Donald Gee, in his reflections on the fruit of the Spirit, speaks to the transformative power of divine love—how it’s not merely a natural affection but a supernatural work of the Spirit within us. To love God as He commands is to invite His Spirit to shape us, renew our hearts daily, and fuel our passion for His glory.

Action Step: Set aside time each day this week to express your love for God. This could be through worship, meditating on His Word, or simply sitting silently and adoring before Him. Let your heart, soul, and mind dwell on His greatness and goodness.

“A true lover of God is one who burns with a passion to know Him more, to experience His presence, and to reflect His love in every corner of their life.” —A.W. Tozer

How does loving God first shape the rest of your life? Share your thoughts in the comments, or consider sharing this devotional with someone who needs a reminder of the power of God’s love. Let’s encourage one another to keep God at the center!

Prayer: Lord, draw our hearts closer to You. Teach us to love You with all that we are. May our lives reflect Your love, and may we find our greatest joy in knowing You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

It begins with Christ!

If you don’t know Christ as your savior, it begins with the first step. Believe in Him and make Him Lord of your life! Committing your life to serve Him is the most significant decision! For more information on serving the Lord, CLICK HERE!

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Blessings,

Chad 

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