via TJC
This week TJC is exploring the importance of our relationships. Like a stone thrown into a pond creates ripples, our relationships make an impact too. In Matthew 22:37-39 Jesus tells us that all of our relationships hinge on our relationship with God (the stone in the pond). Our relationship with Him ripples through us and into those around us. As my local church says: It’s Upward, Inward, Outward. Or as one TJC leader puts it, “It’s about relationships, Stupid.”
"Jesus replied: ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’” ~Matthew 22:37
This verse emphasizes the utmost importance of prioritizing God in our lives. When we love God wholeheartedly, it shapes our entire being—heart, soul, and mind. It’s a reciprocal relationship that we can never match. Our continuing posture is one of Gratitude. Our relationship is continued Thankfullness. He wants us to love Him as much as He loves us, but he doesn’t change or withhold His love because of how we respond. God loves us because of who He is, not because of who we are or what we have done. There is freedom in that. He is unchanging, His covenant isn’t temperamental. We don’t participate in it at all (Genesis 15:9, 10, 17-18, Romans 5:8). He loves us even when we didn’t/don’t love Him.
Putting God first, and understanding how much He deeply loves you, is the propellant. Showing love through gratitude is the action. It enables us to discover and operate in our spiritual gifts effectively, as these gifts are empowered and directed by our relationship with Him.
My children, this is the most important message I can give you, “loving God with all your being is foundational. Loving God is demonstrating gratitude.” As Jesus tells us, Loving God completely is the first and great commandant. It enables you to radiate His light and love in a dark world, encouraging others to embrace God's truth and walk in His ways. Therefore, loving God completely is not only vital for your personal growth and fulfillment but also essential for impacting and uplifting those around us.
Daily Battle Order:
Tell your family how much God loves them. How do we as a family (collectively and individually) demonstrate our gratitude. Talk about what your family is thankful for. Watch this message as a family.
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