The Shema

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Are you reading the Bible through with me? Grab your pen and journal, and get ready to write your thoughts as you journey through the Bible.

Today read Deuteronomy chapters 6-8.

Chapter 6, verses 4-5 are commonly known as the Shema, (pronounced sh’mah). This is the foundation for the 10 Commandments.

The verse says, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul and with all your strength.” God repeats the instructions “Do not forget the Lord your God” over and over in these chapters.

In the New Testament, Matthew 22:37, Jesus himself repeated these words and said in it was the greatest commandment of all.

With your spirit, your mind and your body, you are to sanctify yourself for the Lord. To sanctify yourself means to set yourself apart from worldly things and become holy. This was what God wanted the Israelites to do. They were to focus on the Shema, and to hear His words and obey.

The same is expected of us today. See Mark 12:29-30; and James 1:22.

This isn’t always easy. Sometimes it requires us to let go of worldly things and focus on Him. Being born again is really about a new beginning. New values, new habits, even new relationships. It also means letting go of old habits, old values, and relationships that distract us from obeying God. God wants us to enjoy Him and live in a close relationship with Him. That can only be done if we follow Deuteronomy 6:4-5 to the letter.

In your journal, write out the verses from Deuteronomy 6:4-5. Repeat them often. Orthodox Jews still repeat these verses daily. If necessary, make an index card to tape on your fridge or bathroom mirror. This will remind you daily of what is expected of you.

In your journal, also include a list of what needs to be removed from your life to sanctify yourself. Pray over your list.

PRAY: Lord God, I know that sometimes my love for You is compromised by my attraction to other things. Forgive me for those compromises. The desire of my heart, soul, and strength today is love You with every part of my being—to love You with such passion that Your Presence in my life is evident to others. Thank You, Lord, for Your love for me.