We now arrive at Deuteronomy 6, a chapter foundational to both Jewish and Christian understanding of spiritual devotion. At the heart of this chapter lies one of the most central affirmations in Scripture, known in Judaism as the “Shema” (“Hear”). It declares:
“Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is one. Love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength.”
– Deuteronomy 6:4–5, New International Version
This verse is not merely doctrinal but intensely relational. In Hebrew culture, heart (“lev”) included one’s emotions, thinking, and intent. Soul (“nephesh”) described one’s entire being or life force. Strength (“me’od”) suggests fervent effort and abundant intensity. Together, these terms direct us to an all-encompassing commitment of life motivated by love.
In Mark 12:29–31, Jesus affirmed the Shema as the most important commandment in the Law, emphasizing that love of God must permeate every aspect of our lives. Saint Augustine echoed this when he famously wrote, “You have made us for yourself, O Lord, and our hearts are restless until they find rest in you.”
In verses 6–9, Moses instructs parents how to pass on their faith:
“Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road…Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates.”
– Deuteronomy 6:7–9, New International Version
The language reflects ritual practices of ancient Israel. God’s words were to be visible reminders (“mezuzot”) affixed to homes (still observed by Jews today as mezuzah) and even bound on hands and foreheads (later observed through phylacteries or tefillin). Through these daily rituals, faith became woven into everyday life.
How might we today, in cultures far removed from ancient ways, ensure our faith is vibrant, visible, and passed down? It begins with intentional daily conversation about spiritual truths, a deliberate lifestyle pointing our children, grandchildren, and community consistently toward the Lord.
Moses warned Israel not to become comfortable and forgetful once they had entered the Promised Land:
“When the LORD your God brings you into the land … and you eat and are satisfied, be careful that you do not forget the LORD…”
– Deuteronomy 6:10–12, New International Version
It’s a sobering truth that comfort can often cloud our spiritual clarity. Historian Arnold Toynbee famously said, “Civilizations die from suicide, not by murder.” This insight parallels Moses’ caution: spiritual amnesia in good times could undo what persecution never could.
In our prosperous Western culture today, we are not immune to this danger. Moses reminds us that grateful remembrance and active obedience keep our hearts rightly oriented.
Idolatry (verses 13–15) may seem remote to Western readers, yet it is closer than we think. While our idols are rarely golden statues, they often appear as careers, comfort, popularity, politics, or even family when elevated above God. The Hebrew word for “jealous” here is “qanna,” signifying a zeal for exclusive covenant devotion, less about petty jealousy and more about preserving faithfulness in relationship.
Cross-reference: Matthew 6:24 (“No one can serve two masters…”), highlighting that divided loyalty inevitably leads to spiritual conflict.
The archaeological discoveries, particularly the numerous mezuzot found in excavations dating back to Biblical Israelite periods, affirm the historical reality of these commands. The ancient Jews took Moses’ instructions literally, embedding the Word of God visibly into daily life. Such tangible historical remnants remind us of the active role of the Word of God throughout history.
As you meditate on this chapter today, ask yourself:
Consider reflecting or singing the ancient hymn “Be Thou My Vision.” Its lyrics beautifully echo this undivided, wholehearted devotion to God alone—placing Him first in heart, mind, and soul.
Heavenly Father,
May we hear afresh today your call to undivided love. Awaken within us
deep affection and whole-hearted devotion that flow beyond mere
obligation. Guard our hearts from complacency and false idols, anchoring
us firmly in gratitude for who you are and what you’ve done. Fill us
with passion to pass these timeless truths clearly to coming
generations. Let our lives echo daily your great love. Amen.
Narrated version of this devotional on Deuteronomy Chapter 6