Jesus answered, “The greatest is, ‘Hear, Israel, the Lord our God, the Lord is one: you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind, and with all your strength.’ This is the first commandment. The second is like this, ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no other commandment greater than these.”
–Mark 12:29-31
There’s a reason God asks us to love Him with our heart, soul, mind and strength. It’s because when you truly love someone, you love them with your whole being.
And your love shows up in many different ways.
When the person you love most comes to mind, you think warm and positive thoughts. The person you love has your heart — your connection with them runs deep inside of you. You’re bonded to them by more than just a superficial acquaintance.
That person you love is even part of your soul — you can’t imagine being who you are without them. And that person is your strength, cheering you on and encouraging you. What could you accomplish without your loved one by your side?
Love is more than an emotion.
That’s why, when Jesus says that the one who loves Him will obey Him, this is closer to the true nature of love than we sometimes like to admit. To love Jesus is to give every part of ourselves to Him. Obeying His commands is simply proof of this deep and intimate connection.
Do you love Jesus with your heart, soul, mind, and strength? Commit yourself to Him. Hold nothing back. That’s the only way to truly know Him.
Reflection
In what areas — heart, mind, soul, or strength — do I find it easiest to love God? In what areas do I struggle to put God first? How can I strengthen my weaknesses?
Prayer
Dear God, I love You with all my heart, soul, mind, and strength. Please fill me with Your spirit. Help me to grow more and more like You. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.