Deuteronomy 6:5 tells us to “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your strength.” This verse, part of the Shema prayer in the Jewish tradition, is a powerful call to faithfulness and obedience. But what does it truly mean to love God with every fiber of our being? Let’s explore each aspect of this commandment and discover how we can apply it to our lives today.

Loving God with All Your Heart

In the Bible, the heart is not just the seat of emotions; it’s the core of our thoughts, will, and desires. Tim Mackie from The Bible Project explains that loving God with all our heart means putting His wisdom and guidance above our own. It’s about surrendering our ego and trusting that He knows the best way for us to live.

Modern Day Application:

  • Prioritize Prayer and Scripture Reading: Spending time with God in prayer and studying His Word helps us align our hearts with His.
  • Seek His Will in Decision-Making: Instead of relying solely on our own understanding, we should seek God’s guidance through prayer and wise counsel.
  • Practice Gratitude: Cultivating a grateful heart helps us appreciate God’s blessings and recognize His hand in our lives.

Loving God with All Your Soul

The soul in the Hebrew understanding encompasses our entire physical being, not just an immaterial essence. Scott Savage, pastor and author, emphasizes that loving God with all our soul means embracing Him even amidst difficult emotions and life’s challenges. It’s about acknowledging Him in every aspect of our human experience.

Living Up to this Commandment:

  • Honesty with God: Bring your authentic self to God, including your doubts, fears, and struggles. He can handle it.
  • Surrender Control: Trust that God is working even in difficult situations, and allow Him to guide you through them.
  • Embrace Vulnerability: Let go of the need to appear perfect and allow yourself to be seen and loved by God as you are.

Loving God with All Your Strength

“Strength” in this verse doesn’t just refer to physical power. Tim Mackie explains that the Hebrew word “mᵊ’ōḏ” pronounced meh-ode’ means our full capacity and potential. It’s about dedicating all our talents, resources, and abilities to serve God and further His kingdom.

Modern Day Examples:

  • Using Your Talents: Whether you’re a musician, artist, teacher, or entrepreneur, use your gifts to glorify God and bless others.
  • Generosity: Share your time, resources, and finances to support ministries, help those in need, and advance God’s work.
  • Living with Integrity: Conduct yourself in a way that honors God in your workplace, relationships, and daily interactions.

References

  1. Tim Mackie of The Bible Project on “Deuteronomy 6:5.” Link to Video
  2. Savage, Scott. “Love God With All My Heart, Soul and Strength.” Link to Video
  3. Photo by Richard Jaimes on Unsplash