LOVE GOD, LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR

Passage: Matthew 22:34~40  

Key verse: 37


1. Love God (34-38)

When the lawyer asked Jesus, 'Which is the greatest commandment?' Jesus quoted Deuteronomy 6:5. The first and greatest commandment is to Love God with all one's heart and soul and mind. God is our Creator. He made us for his own glory. He wants to be first in our affections, first in our decisions and first in our commitments. St. Augustine said, 'Love God and do as you please.' If we truly love God, then our greatest joy is to please him.

2. Love your neighbor (39-40)

Jesus quoted Leviticus 19:18, and added the second commandment. Some people think: 'If I love God with all my heart, then there isn't room for anyone else.' But spiritual mathematics doesn't work like this. If one loves God, then he is enabled to love others rightly. If one does not love God, then he only loves himself.


Prayer: Lord, fill me with your love. Help me to love Jesus first, others next and myself last.

One Word: Love God with all your heart