Journey: 30 Days to a Close Relationship With Godಮಾದರಿ

Today's verse is a bit sobering but also motivating. God has standards, but not to be a killjoy or because he doesn't want you to have fun. God has standards because he loves you, and he loves others. When we go against God's truth, we either hurt ourselves, others, or both.

Jesus said all of God's law could be summed up in two commands: Love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind (v.37 NIV). And love your neighbor as yourself (v.39, NIV). This is where God wants us to focus, and his warning is clear that this will be the standard he wants us to live by.

How are you loving others? Not according to someone else's standard but God's standard. Are you loving your wife like Christ loves the church if you're a husband? Are you obeying your parents if you're a student? Are you honoring your employer? How can you show love to others today and fulfill God's standard of love?

Take a few minutes and think of ways that Jesus loved others. Then pray about how you can do those same things for those around you.

It is time to leave everyone and everything behind and look to the Lord. This is best done in a space by yourself, in a room or outside on a deck. Close your eyes and let your thoughts clear. Bring to mind how God has worked in your life.

Prayer: Lord, I thank you that you are good and you do good. There is no one like you in all creation. Open my mind and heart to your Word and help me understand your ways. Thank you Father, for what you will do today. In Jesus' name, amen.