At one point in their walk with Jesus the disciples asked Him what was the most important commandment (Matthew 22:36-38). Jesus did not hesitate and said the greatest commandment was to love God with all your heart, soul and mind. Jesus did not tell us that loving God was the greatest commandment just to complete another verse in the Bible. This was not just some lofty religious statement. It is VERY, VERY important!!!! It is more important than we have ever imagined!!!
When we love God with all our being there is a hedge of protection and favor (Job 1:10) that encircles us. There is a shield of armor that surrounds us that repels the darts of the enemy and helps us reject worldly temptations.
“Hast not thou made an hedge about him, and about his house, and about all that he hath on every side? Thou hast blessed the work of his hands, and his substance is increased in the land”. (Job 1:10)
Our youngest son loved sports in high school. One day he came home and told his mother that another student at school had offered him drugs. His mom asked him what was his response. He said he told the guy, “no way, my coach would kill me!” My son loved sports so much that he was not about to jeopardize his place on the team for drugs. That is the same principle we are trying to get across to you. If you love God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind, you will always have the courage to say no to the world and the favor of God will always follow you every place you step your foot. It is that simple and that powerful!
“For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments: and his commandments are not grievous. For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith”. (I John 5:3-4)
For You, Lord, will bless the (uncompromisingly) righteous (him who is upright and in right standing with You); as with a shield. You will surround him with good-will (pleasure and favor). (Psalms 5:12, Amplified)
But if one loves God truly (with affectionate reverence, prompt obedience, and grateful recognition of His blessing), he is known by God (recognized as worthy of His intimacy and love, and he is owned by Him). (1 Corinthians 8:3, Amplified)
Rev. Ed Henderson
New Life Network, Inc.
www.newlifenetwork-org-staging.smwnm894-liquidwebsites.com
