Have you ever noticed that many churches seem to focus heavily on one thing while neglecting others? Some emphasize doctrine, others lean into emotion, while some prioritize service or community. Yet Jesus gives us a clear command that calls for a complete and balanced devotion: “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength” (Mark 12:30).
This is not a suggestion. It is the greatest commandment. Jesus invites us to love God with our whole being. That includes our thoughts, emotions, relationships, and actions. Anything less is incomplete.
There is a moment in Scripture where Jesus tells Peter, “I will build My Church, and the gates of hell will not prevail against it” (Matthew 16:18). Two thousand years later, the Church still stands. It has endured persecution, division, cultural shifts, and countless trials. The presence of faithful believers around the world is proof that His promise remains true.
But not every local church reflects biblical health. Some churches carry deep flaws. You might find burned-out volunteers, conflict among members, or a loss of focus on Christ. No church is perfect. And yet, God uses these imperfect communities to teach us how to love, forgive, and grow. Through these struggles, we become more like Christ.
Still, we must examine ourselves. Is the church I attend helping me grow in all aspects of love for God? Too often, churches elevate one aspect above the others. One may stress theological precision but grow cold in worship. Another may stir emotion but lack sound teaching. Some churches are rich in fellowship but weak in mission. Others are strong in serving but shallow in discipleship.
Jesus calls us to something more. We are to love God with our mind, heart, soul, and strength. We need right thinking about God, a heart stirred by His beauty, deep relationships with His people, and a life poured out in service.
Worship will look different from one culture to another. A church in Africa may not look like a church in Russia. A church in Washington state may worship differently than one in South America. That is not the issue. The issue is whether we are offering God our whole selves.
So, let me ask you:
- Are you loving God with your mind by seeking to know Him through Scripture?
- Are you loving Him with your heart through sincere and passionate worship?
- Are you loving Him with your soul through Christ-centered relationships and accountability?
- Are you loving Him with your strength by serving others and using your gifts?
Let us not be content with partial devotion. Let us be whole disciples in whole churches. May we be people who reflect the full beauty of Christ’s command and grow in every way to love the Lord our God with all we are.
