Jesus said to him, “‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.’ This is the first and great commandment.²

There have been many times in my life when I have wished for a Life Manual to tell me what I need to do. I am sure that I am not alone in that desire. When I take a moment to close my eyes and ask the Lord for guidance, I am reminded that, as a child of God, I do have a manual - a whole book to show me the exact design God intended for meâ€"and you!

The Bible, God’s Holy Word, was given to us as a guide and love letter all at the same time. Its pages are filled with promises, words of wisdom, examples, and even rules for us to follow. For the next couple of weeks, we will be exploring one of the most famous sections of the Bible. Known as one of the most important pieces of religious literature in the whole world, ‘The Ten Commandments’ form the foundation on which we can make right decisions. Written personally by God, ‘The Ten Words’, as they have been known throughout history, reflect divine ideals for us as children of God.

The first of these Ten Commandments says, “You shall have no other gods before me�. Simply put, this means that Jesus should be your top priority. The one who saved you from sin and gave you eternal life is worthy of taking first place. Unfortunately, other things and other people frequently take that place from our Lord.

The Bible warns us about how easily we can make gods out of things we love instead of worshiping the one true God, who gives us those good things. Worship can be defined as excessive admiration for someone or something. God gave us all things to enjoy, but none of those things should become more important than Him. It is good for us to enjoy all the gifts He's given you, but we are to worship him alone. Matthew 6:33 says to “seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness�; then everything else will come.

What, or whom, is vying for the Lord's place right now? This commandment comes first because it is the most important. All the other Commandments hang on this one. If we get this one right, the rest will follow. If we get this one wrong, none of the others will matter.

Suggested Prayer: Dear Lord, I ask that you forgive me for anything that I've placed above you this week. I've allowed things to take your place. I've trusted in my own wisdom instead of seeking you and depending on you. Today, I want to lift you up and worship you alone for I know that you are the One true God and there is no god beside you. In Jesus’ Holy name, Amen.

1.    Exodus 20:3.

2.    Matthew 22:37-38.

Today’s Encounter was written by: Veronica B.