There are many good things you could do, but good can be the enemy of the best. Luke records a story that shows us the importance of choosing the best. As Jesus was nearing the end of His ministry, He was at the home of Mary and Martha. Martha was busy making preparations for the meal, but Mary was not helping:

She had a sister called Mary, who was seated at the Lord’s feet listening to His word. (Luke 10:39)

There was a great deal of work to be done, but Mary chose to be with Jesus. How would you feel if you were Martha? Martha’s frustration is revealed in the next verse:

But Martha was distracted with all her preparations; and she came up to Him and said, “Lord, do You not care that my sister has left me to do all the serving alone? Then tell her to help me.” (Luke 10:40)

Martha was distracted – she lost sight of what is really important in life. How often do we become mired in the incidentals of life and lose a true sense of our priorities? People can become so devoted to their career that they lose their family. What distractions are you facing that keep you from that which is most important?

Next, we see that Martha felt that God did not care about her dilemma. This is a primary tactic of Satan, his goal is to make you think that God is not concerned about your situation. God not only knows what you’re going through, but He cares. We must remember that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love Him.

Finally, we see that Martha was frustrated with her sister because she felt abandoned. We may find it easy to identify with Martha, but let’s examine Jesus’ response:

But the Lord answered and said to her, “Martha, Martha, you are worried and bothered about so many things; but only one thing is necessary, for Mary has chosen the good part, which shall not be taken away from her.” (Luke 10:41-42)

Martha was worried and bothered about so many things. The word worried conveys the idea of being pulled in different directions. Jesus provided a solution – only one thing is necessary. Could it be that much of our modern day anxiety is because we have lost sight of the one thing that is necessary?

We must realize that our relationship with God is paramount and that it must be our primary focus. Kierkegaard wrote “Purity of heart is to will one thing.” When busyness causes us to become distracted, then our priorities become misplaced and we lose our joy. Joy is not based upon our accomplishments but in God’s presence:

You will make known to me the way of life; in Your presence is fullness of joy; in Your right hand there are pleasures forever. (Psalm 16:11)

Associate Pastor – Discipleship.  The Church at LifePark

Professor of Discipleship, Columbia International University

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