If you’ve been a believer in Jesus for a while, you can probably easily answer the following question: “Which is the most important commandment in the law of Moses?” (Matthew 22:36). The answer Jesus gave? “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind” (v.37).
But is that commandment truly the most important to us? Let me paraphrase that question with two more: Which command most dictates the way we live? Which command most influences our behavior?
Many other “commandments” which—due to our upbringing or personal inclination—may rise as most important. The “law” of watch out for No.1 and the “rule” of self-advancement are two you’ve likely run into.
Imagine this scenario: Someone is spreading vicious rumors about you. What will you do? Immediately launch a counterattack to preserve your good name? Or will you consider what a loving God demands of you, “Never pay back evil with more evil”? (Romans 12:17).
How about when your work piles up, or when you’re feeling pressured to climb over people on your way up the corporate ladder—what is your greatest commandment then? Is it still to love God? To seek the kingdom of God above all else? (Matthew 6:33).
Jesus not only described “loving God” as the greatest commandment, He also said that it is the “first” (v.38). This word implies priority. Loving God must take the highest priority. It takes precedence over any human desires or drives. This commandment must be the first consideration in all our decisions. We must watch out for that No. 1 as we approach our work, relationships, and all of our life.
Simply put, loving God with our all is foremost! Is this commandment the greatest in your life?
More:
• Deuteronomy 6:5
• Joshua 22:5
• 1 John 2:
Next:
How have you been living out God’s greatest commandment? What happens in our relationship with others when we truly love God with all our heart, soul, and mind?
dianalovesjesus2 on June 22, 2009 at 11:42 am
YES!! Right on!! Amen, and thank you!!
joyful on July 19, 2009 at 10:15 pm
i think i nearly fail god in this matter. My housemate helps me to buy bus tickets for going and return for my coming short semester breaks. She did a mistake that i did last year. After buying those tickets she forgotten to check the travel date of the tickets and she returned to the operator. The operator charged her amendment fee. At first i really wanted to make a revenge as she shouted and scolded me when i did that mistake last time. As i began to scold her, i feel like holy spirit is with me and ask me to stop immediately. I ended up comforting her as she was so gulity of making me paying extra for the tickets. I’m so sorry.