Matthew 22:37 is probably a verse many of us have memorized, and have since we were young: “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.”

I try to pray Scriptures for my kids on a daily basis. This is probably one of my favorite verses to pray for them (and myself). However, I have to be careful that I don’t get in the habit of just rote praying. What do the words really mean? What is God asking of us?

It’s easy to say, “I love God!” But that’s not where this verse ends. The next words hit hard: “with all your heart.” It’s so easy to slowly let other things creep in and take God’s place in my heart. God doesn’t want just part of my heart…He wants ALL of my heart to be fully devoted to Him. What am I letting creep in and take over God’s place? My schedule? My phone? Sports? Work? A busy life is no excuse for giving Him only part of my heart.
What does “with all your soul” mean? With all our will, understanding and affections. One commentary says that before the fall, this command was simple and natural. But as fallen beings, we are “utterly unable to perform” such acts. Why would God command us to do something that is wholly unachievable? I’m no theologian, but it seems to me that when we submit ourselves fully to God, in His grace and mercy, He perfects our love. When we seek to love God with every fiber of our being, the Spirit produces the fruit of love in our souls.

And finally, “with all your mind.” Some versions say strength. I have one child that has an incredible one-track mind. When they want something, you better look out! There is very little that can deter this child from that goal! It’s tunnel vision. This is what God wants from us, a one-track mind, eyes on the prize, tunnel vision love for Him. What is your mind fixed on? The troubles of this life, or the glory of Christ?

May our prayer this week be that we and our children would love God with every fiber of our being: heart, soul, and mind. The only way to do that is by being in His Word, spending time in prayer, fellowshipping with other believers (iron sharpens iron), and praising Him for His great love.

- Jenn