“But the Lord answered her, ‘Martha, Martha, you are worried and troubled about many things, but one thing is needed. Mary has chosen the best part; it will not be taken away from her.’” —Luke 10:41–42
I think there are many of us who could replace Martha’s name with our own! How easy it is to become worried and upset about many things. In these two verses Jesus speaks to us regarding our priorities! Yes, it does matter what we choose to focus on! Yes, it does matter how we live! Yes, it does matter that we spend time with Jesus! The Bible tells us:
“Therefore consider carefully how you live—not as unwise but as wise, taking advantage of every opportunity, because the days are evil.” —Ephesians 5:15–16
Each day dawns brimming full of choices. Some are no brainers—most of us do not have a problem choosing between blatant right and deliberate wrong. However, oftentimes our choices are between things that are intrinsically good. Bill Bright used to say, “You know you are far along in your Christian walk when you are choosing between something good and something better or best.”
In our verses for today, Martha was choosing between serving the Master (which we are called to do) and listening to the Master (which we are also called to do).
Discerning what is required is not easy, and certainly our actions can be misunderstood. All the more reason we must know at a core level what our priorities in life are. If we do not have this set in our hearts, we will fall for the tyranny of the urgent every time. Are we making decisions against the backdrop of our priorities, or are we simply putting out fires or rushing to the loudest cry? Are our priorities God’s priorities? These are important questions to ponder.
Paul tells us:
“Do not be anxious about anything. Instead, in every situation, through prayer and petition with thanksgiving, tell your requests to God. And the peace of God that surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.” —Philippians 4:6–7
Worry is an affront to God and shows a lack of trust in His provision. Rather than worry, we are called to pray with thanksgiving. Worry demonstrates that we somehow believe we are in control! Peace residing in a heart, particularly in dire circumstances, demonstrates our trust in a heavenly Father who spoke the world into being.
Psalm 33:13–18 tells us:
“The LORD watches from heaven; he sees all people. From the place where he lives he looks carefully at all the earth’s inhabitants. He is the one who forms every human heart, and takes note of all their actions. No king is delivered by his vast army; a warrior is not saved by his great might. A horse disappoints those who trust in it for victory; despite its great strength, it cannot deliver. Look, the LORD takes notice of his loyal followers, those who wait for him to demonstrate his faithfulness.”
Each day we must pray with thanksgiving and ask God to take captive our every thought and make it obedient to Jesus Christ. Sometimes this must to be repeated many times throughout the day in order to stay focused on God’s agenda. God is always faithful. His desire is for us to depend on Him. His desire is to lead us to victory.
Become More
Make a list of your priorities and then record how you spend your time, resources, and talents. Are you using your greatest gifts on your priorities? Oftentimes we espouse one thing and live another. Ask God to help you let Him prioritize your life.
Further Reflections
“Worry is an intrusion into God’s providence.” —John Haggai
“A life of thankfulness releases the glory of God.” —Bengt Sundberg