Definition: Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind.
Explanation: Okay, let's break down this important verse from Matthew 22:37. It’s a really fundamental teaching about our relationship with God. Here’s what it means in simple terms: Basically, Jesus is telling us to love God with all of your heart, mind, and soul. Let's unpack that a little bit: “Thou shalt…” - This is a formal command, like a rule or instruction. It’s important! “…love the Lord thy God…” – This means to have a deep and genuine affection for God. It’s not just liking him; it's a real, heartfelt feeling of respect and devotion. "...with all thy heart..." - This means your whole being, your emotions, and everything you feel – truly and deeply. It’s about letting your true feelings show. "...and with all thy soul..." – This is a stronger expression than the first one. It means you're giving your entire being to God; it’s not just your thoughts, but your whole spirit. "...and with all thy mind…” - This means you’re thinking about God and everything He represents—his goodness, his truth, and his plan for your life. In short, it's a call to live a life that is deeply connected to God – one where you are genuinely loving and respecting Him. Why is this important? Jesus says this is the most important thing to do with any relationship – with anyone! It’s the foundation of our faith. --- Do you want me to: Explain it in a different way? Give an example of how this principle applies to everyday life?