In a world full of distractions, endless pursuits, and countless responsibilities, it can be easy to lose sight of what truly matters. We ask ourselves, What should I focus on? What’s most important in life? Thankfully, Jesus’ words in Matthew 22:36-40 cut through the noise and point us to the answer.
A religious scholar once approached Jesus with a question: “Teacher, which is the most important commandment in the law of Moses?” Without hesitation, Jesus replied: “You must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. A second is equally important: Love your neighbor as yourself. The entire law and all the demands of the prophets are based on these two commandments.”
These two commands—loving God and loving our neighbor—are not just important; they are the foundation for everything else in life. Let’s explore why these are the most important things we can do and how they transform every aspect of our lives.
Why Loving God is the Most Important Thing
To love God with all our heart, soul, and mind is to place Him at the center of our lives. It means to worship Him fully, trust Him completely, and prioritize Him above all else. Why is this the most important thing?
- God is the Source of Everything Loving God acknowledges that He is the Creator and Sustainer of our lives. We exist because of Him, and everything we have comes from Him. When we love Him, we align our lives with His purposes and experience the fullness of His presence.
- It Restores Our Identity We were created to be in a loving relationship with God. Sin distorts this relationship, but through Jesus, we are invited back into fellowship with Him. Loving God restores our true identity as His children.
- It Shapes Our Character The more we love God, the more we become like Him. As we spend time in His Word, in prayer, and in worship, our hearts are transformed. We begin to reflect His love, kindness, and holiness.
Why Loving Your Neighbor is Equally Important
Loving God and loving others are inseparable. The more we experience God’s love, the more it overflows into our relationships. Here’s why loving our neighbor is vital:
- It Reflects God’s Heart God’s love is inclusive and sacrificial. When we love others, we mirror His character and demonstrate the Gospel in action. As 1 John 4:20 reminds us, “Whoever does not love their brother or sister, whom they have seen, cannot love God, whom they have not seen.”
- It Brings Healing to a Broken World The world is filled with division, hatred, and pain. Loving our neighbors—whether they are family, friends, strangers, or even enemies—brings light into the darkness. Acts of love, however small, have the power to transform lives.
- It Fulfills the Law Paul writes in Romans 13:10, “Love does no harm to a neighbor. Therefore love is the fulfillment of the law.” When we love others, we naturally obey God’s commandments, because love seeks the good of others.
How to Love God and Love Others
Practicing these two commandments requires intentionality and surrender. Here are some practical steps:
- Spend Time with God To love God deeply, we need to know Him. Prioritize daily time in Scripture, prayer, and worship. Let His Word shape your thoughts and actions.
- Obey His Commands Jesus said, “If you love Me, obey My commandments” (John 14:15). Our love for God is demonstrated through our obedience. Seek to live a life that honors Him.
- Look for Opportunities to Serve Loving your neighbor starts with a willingness to serve. Look for practical ways to meet the needs of those around you—a kind word, a listening ear, or a helping hand can make a big difference.
- Forgive and Extend Grace Loving others isn’t always easy. People can hurt or disappoint us. But as recipients of God’s grace, we are called to forgive and extend the same grace to others.
- Pray for Others Interceding for others in prayer is one of the most powerful ways to love them. Ask God to bless, guide, and draw them closer to Him.
Why This Matters
At the end of our lives, what will matter most is not how much we achieved, how much wealth we accumulated, or how popular we were. What will matter is how well we loved. Did we love God wholeheartedly? Did we love others selflessly?
Jesus’ words remind us of the simplicity and beauty of the Gospel: love God and love people. When we make these our highest priorities, we fulfill God’s purpose for our lives and leave a lasting legacy.
So, what is the most important thing? It’s love. Love for God. Love for others. May we live each day with this as our focus, and in doing so, bring glory to God and hope to the world.
