Know Your Bible Devotions for MenSample

What Is the Most Important Commandment?

During Jesus’ earthly ministry, a Jewish religious authority asked Him a very important question: “Master, which is the greatest commandment in the law?” (Matthew 22:36). Of course, this man knew that all of God’s commandments were important. But he hoped to catch Jesus off-guard and trap Him in His words. Jesus responded by directly quoting today’s scripture passage: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment” (Matthew 22:37–38 NIV). This commandment, which still applies today, is the first and greatest for one simple reason: if you love God with everything inside you, obedience will naturally follow. If you love God, you won’t engage in idolatry, misuse His name, or do anything else that displeases Him. Jesus once said to His followers, “If you love me, keep my commands” (John 14:15 NIV). Love rests at the center of your relationship with God — Jesus’ love for you motivated Him to willingly go to the cross, and your love for Him motivates you to perform everything He calls you to do, willingly and joyfully.