Seeking God with Your Whole Heart

Photo image courtesy Pixabay

“You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart”
— Jeremiah 29:13 (NIV)

Before I met my husband, I’d thought a lot about who I wanted to date and marry. I had a mile-long list of qualifications, expectations, personality, and physical attributes. But what was at the top of that list? They had to love Jesus and me with their whole heart. I wasn’t about half-hearted lovers, people playing games, or wasting my time. And I can’t help but think how many of us do that with Jesus unintentionally.

Your relationship with God is the most important relationship you will ever have. Jesus tells us that the two most important commands are to love God and love others. But did you notice, loving others well begins by loving God first? And not just loving Him in word, but in deed, with your whole heart. Matthew 22:37 says it this way: “Jesus replied: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind” (NIV).

Seeking God with your heart means loving Him with your heart, soul, mind, and strength—your whole self. It’s a love that doesn’t leave out who we really are, nor does it only present the best or presentable parts. It’s a love that prioritizes your relationship with Jesus above all else, because it knows everything else in this life is temporary and will pass away.

Yes, investing in our relationships here on earth is important. Yes, we’re made for community. Yes, we’re to be lights of Jesus shining bright for others to see. Yes, we’re to love our spouses, family members, and unlovable people with His love. But we can’t do any of that without loving love Himself first.

Question for Reflection:

Do you struggle to love God above everything else in your life? If your answer is “Yes,” you’re not alone. Many individuals struggle to not only prioritize God, but also guard their hearts from other things taking His place. Here’s a practical tip: Every morning, get into a routine of asking God to help you love Him more than anything else. Ask Him to help you love Him so that you can better love those around you.

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