Definition: Thou shalt fear the LORD thy God, and serve him, and shalt swear by his name.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down Deuteronomy 6:13. It’s a really important part of how Christians understand their relationship with God. Here's what it means in simpler terms: Basically, this verse is saying: “Don’t just treat God as a distant figure or something you ignore. Treat Him with respect and reverence – really respect Him – and always follow His rules.” Let's unpack that a little further: "Thou shalt fear the LORD your God…" This means you need to show respect and acknowledge God’s power and authority. It’s not about being scared, but rather understanding that God is in control and deserves our obedience. Think of it like acknowledging He’s the ultimate lawgiver. “…and serve him…” This is crucial . It means you need to more than just acknowledge God; you need to obey His commands. It's about putting your trust in Him and following what He tells you. "...and shalt swear by his name." This is the really important part! It means you can speak to God with words that have a serious, holy meaning. You’re allowed to make promises or declarations – like declaring you’ll do something good – but always with a sense of seriousness and responsibility. It's a way of acknowledging that God is powerful and has authority over your life. In short, Deuteronomy 6:13 encourages us to: Be mindful of our relationship with God. Treat Him as a worthy partner in our lives. Respect His rules and commands. Speak to Him with seriousness and responsibility. Why is this important? It’s seen as a foundation for trust and faith. It's a reminder that we are part of God’s plan and that He has authority over our lives. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse in the same passage? Give an example of how this principle applies to everyday life?