In a world overwhelmed by constant noise—news headlines, social media posts, and divisive debates—it will possibly be easy for Christians to lose give attention to what truly matters. Every day, we’re bombarded with messages that tell us what we must always care about, who we must always be, and the way we must always act. But as followers of Christ, an important thing we must always be fascinated about isn’t present in the headlines or the newest viral trend. It’s present in the Word of God.
So, what’s an important thing for us as Christians today? It’s the identical thing it’s at all times been: our hearts’ alignment with Jesus and His call to like God and love others. This is the cornerstone of our faith, and in today’s divided, chaotic world, it’s more vital than ever to maintain this front and center.
The Call to Love God above All
When Jesus was asked which commandment was the best, He didn’t hesitate. “Love the Lord your God with all of your heart and with all of your soul and with all of your mind” (Matthew 22:37). This isn’t just a pleasant idea or a suggestion—it’s the inspiration of all the things we consider and do as Christians.
But let’s be honest: loving God with all the things we’ve got isn’t at all times easy. Our hearts are easily distracted, and the world offers countless idols that compete for our attention—success, money, relationships, comfort, and even good causes. These things aren’t inherently bad, but after they take precedence over God, they turn out to be hindrances.
The Bible warns against these distractions. In 1 John 2:15-16, we’re told, “Do not love the world or anything on the earth. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is just not in them. For all the things on the earth—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—comes not from the Father but from the world.”
Today, we must ask ourselves: Is God truly first in my life? Do I spend more time scrolling through social media than I do in prayer or Scripture? Do I prioritize my profession, my image, or my comfort over my relationship with Him?
Psalm 37:4 reminds us, “Take enjoyment of the Lord, and He gives you the desires of your heart.” The key isn’t to chase after what we wish but to align our desires with His by delighting in Him first. When we put God at the middle, all the things else falls into place.
Loving Others as Ourselves
Right after commanding us to like God, Jesus gave us the second biggest commandment: “Love your neighbor as yourself” (Matthew 22:39). These two commandments are inseparable. If we truly love God, it would naturally overflow into love for others.
But what does loving others seem like today? Does it mean agreeing with everyone? Ignoring sin to maintain the peace?
Not in any respect. Love is just not passive—it’s lively, courageous, and infrequently costly. It means speaking truth in love (Ephesians 4:15), standing up for what’s right, and being the hands and feet of Christ to a hurting world.
In our current culture, division and hostility dominate. Social media algorithms thrive on outrage and controversy, pitting people against one another. Yet, as Christians, we’re called to rise above this. Romans 12:18 challenges us: “If it is feasible, so far as it relies on you, live at peace with everyone.”
Loving others means entering into the brokenness with grace and humility. It means caring for the marginalized (Proverbs 31:8-9), forgiving those that have wronged us (Colossians 3:13), and prioritizing reconciliation over retribution (2 Corinthians 5:18-19).
The Eternal Perspective
One of the best traps Christians face today is losing sight of eternity. I say it repeatedly. It’s easy to get caught up within the temporary—political battles, cultural shifts, personal ambitions—and forget that our ultimate home is just not here.
Colossians 3:2 exhorts us to “set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.” When we do not forget that this world is just not our final destination, it changes how we live. We begin to focus less on constructing our own little kingdoms and more on advancing God’s Kingdom.
This everlasting perspective also changes how we view suffering and hardship. In John 16:33, Jesus reminds us, “In this world, you should have trouble. But take heart! I actually have overcome the world.” Instead of being consumed by fear or despair when things go incorrect, we are able to have peace knowing that God’s plans are greater than our present circumstances.
Furthermore, studies reveal the advantages of this everlasting mindset. Research by the Pew Research Center consistently shows that individuals of religion who give attention to spiritual practices—reminiscent of prayer and community—report higher levels of joy, peace, and resilience, even in difficult times.
A Call to Action
So, what should we do with all this? How will we live out these truths in a practical way?
1. Prioritize Daily Time with God
If loving God is our biggest command, we must put money into our relationship with Him. Set aside time day-after-day to read His Word, pray, and easily sit in His presence. Let Him shape your thoughts, desires, and actions. Studies show that consistent spiritual disciplines, reminiscent of day by day prayer and Bible reading, improve mental health and supply a stronger sense of purpose.
2. Look for Ways to Love Others
Loving your neighbor doesn’t at all times require grand gestures. It could be so simple as listening without judgment, offering encouragement, or helping someone in need. Ask God to point out you opportunities to like others, after which step out in faith. Practical acts of kindness not only bless others but in addition combat feelings of loneliness and disconnection—two major crises in today’s world.
3. Keep an Eternal Perspective
When you’re feeling overwhelmed by the issues of this world, remind yourself of God’s sovereignty and His guarantees. Instead of being consumed by worry, give attention to what you’ll be able to do to make an everlasting impact—sharing the Gospel, serving others, and living out your faith boldly.
The most significant thing for a Christian to take into consideration today isn’t a latest concept. It’s the identical call that has guided believers for hundreds of years: to like God with all our hearts and to like others as ourselves. In a world filled with distractions, we must intentionally refocus our hearts and minds on what truly matters.
Let’s not waste time chasing after things that won’t last. Instead, let’s fix our eyes on Jesus, the writer, and perfecter of our faith (Hebrews 12:2). Let’s love Him passionately, serve others selflessly, and live every day with eternity in mind.
By doing this, we fulfill our calling as followers of Christ, and in a world eager for hope and truth, we turn out to be the beacon that points others to Him. This is an important thing we are able to do today and day-after-day.
Photo Credit: ©GettyImages/Maria Dorota
Cynthia Garrett broke barriers when she became the primary African American woman within the U.S. to host a network late-night show, NBC’s Later with Cynthia Garrett. She is currently seen on TBN and Salem Media networks, in addition to on Fox News and other news outlets, addressing cultural issues and today’s news. The Cynthia Garrett Podcasts premiere weekly on all major podcast platforms.
A highly sought-after speaker, writer, TV host, and ordained minister, Garrett is the writer of The Naked Truth: Reclaiming Sexual Freedom in a Culture of Lies (2024), I Choose Victory: Moving from Victim to Victor (2020), and Prodigal Daughter: A Journey Home to Identity (2016). For more information, visit www.cynthiagarrett.org
