Heart, Soul, and Mind

According to one theory, the left side of our brain helps us perform analytical reasoning for math, reading, and processing facts. In contrast, the right side is the center of creativity and feelings. These centers of thinking are still being researched, but any teacher will tell you that information sticks in our long-term memory better when the senses are involved. They have also found that we think more quickly when emotions are attached and that being in community brings us joy. Both areas—the left brain and right brain—work together to help us reason and make decisions.

So which side of the brain, if any, would help you love someone? Which side of the brain drives your compassion? Jesus showed us we need to go beyond just the brain to be fully in relationship with one another.

Jesus answered: “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, and mind.”

Matthew 22:37 (CEV)

Reflecting on what is included in your “heart, soul, and mind” reveals how all-encompassing this command is. Many of us have not been good at loving the Lord with all of ourselves—emotion, action, and thought. Too often, we compartmentalize our spiritual journey to Sunday school and reading a Bible story. But the Lord wants to be in every part of our lives. And for the sake of our children, God’s Word must be seen as more than a set of rules to memorize.

When you love the Lord God with your whole being, he becomes part of your every moment. Watch the clouds roll in and voice your awe of a mighty God. Turn on the Christian radio station and dance along to it in praise to the Lord. If you’re having a difficult day, stop right where you are, and ask your child to pray for you. Talk about what moves you to love God and what he teaches you. Enjoy works of art and entertainment together and discuss spiritual themes. Bring every little and big thing to God in prayer immediately. Let them hear you talk to God about your concerns and joys. And create a Christian community where your kids see you praying, weeping, and rejoicing with fellow believers.

PRAY

Oh, Lord God, help me love you with my whole being—heart, soul, and mind. Help my children see you through me and grow closer to you every day. Amen.

TIME TO TALK

Conversation starter for kids: Provides you with questions and prompts to facilitate a time of applicable discussion with children to lead them towards knowing God and His Word more deeply.

Question(s): What do you do when you love somebody? When you really love someone, how often do you think about them?

Apply: What are your kids’ entertainment interests? Can you find any spiritual themes in the lyrics or plot line to talk about, even something as simple as a longing for purpose and meaning?

KEEP IT GOING

Related passages: These additional verses will help parents expand Scriptural knowledge and place on the armor of God’s Word to tackle each day. Swipe to read the passages today.

Psalm 42:1-4

Philippians 3:10-11