“Hear, O 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 might.” Deuteronomy 6:4-5
One of the best-known passages in the Old Testament says: love God “with all your heart” (6:5) and keep His commands “on your heart” (6:6). We are talking about a personal, spiritual relationship with Almighty God, formed by faith and characterized by love.
The Gospels tell us about an occasion when a teacher of the law asked Jesus, “Which commandment is the most important of all?” (Mark 12:28). Now that’s a good question. Of everything that God has said, what matters most? What is it that God really wants of me?
Jesus answered: “The most important is, ‘Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. And 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.’ The second is this: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no other commandment greater than these” (Mark 12:29-31).
Then Jesus said, “On these two commandments depend all the Law and the Prophets” (Matt. 22:40). Everything that God says to you, all that He calls you to do, can be summed up in these two things: Love God with all your heart. Love your neighbor as yourself.
Are these the most important concerns in your life today? If not, what is?
Do You Need Hope This Easter Season?
Watch the powerful story of the thief on the cross today
The thief’s story of salvation is one that begins, literally, on the brink of hell. The pain this man had experienced throughout his life fueled his hate for God, so much so that he detested the man hanging there on the cross beside him. But then, for the first time, he began to fear God.
If you’ve found yourself in a similar place, there is hope. Hope because heaven is real, hope because we have a Savior, and hope because all you have to do is accept Jesus’ invitation.
Join Pastor Colin In-Person!
Do you want to understand the Bible story? 📖
Pastor Colin Smith’s upcoming event FLY THROUGH THE BIBLE, is a high-altitude exploration of the entire Bible story. This brief introduction to the Bible will help you grasp who God is, who you are, who Jesus is, and what He offers to you!
Coming to 4 cities this fall:
- St. Louis, Missouri
- Twin Cities, Minnesota
- Des Moines, Iowa
- Indianapolis, Indiana
Will you join us?
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