How can we balance service and devotion, as seen in Luke 10:41? The Setting: Martha, Mary, and Jesus Luke 10:41-42: “Martha, Martha,” the Lord replied, “you are worried and upset about many things. 42 But only one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion, and it will not be taken away from her.” • Martha welcomes Jesus, eager to serve. • Mary sits at His feet, listening to His word. • Jesus affirms Mary’s choice while gently correcting Martha’s anxiety. What Jesus Corrects • “Worried and upset about many things” – service had become stressful distraction. • The heart issue: misplaced priorities, not the tasks themselves (cf. 1 Corinthians 13:3). • Jesus invites Martha to trade anxiety for single-minded devotion. Why Devotion Comes First • Fellowship fuels service (John 15:5 – “apart from Me you can do nothing”). • Christ Himself practiced withdrawal for prayer before ministry (Mark 1:35). • The “good portion” is fellowship that cannot be taken away (Psalm 27:4). Principles for Balancing Service and Devotion 1. Start at His feet • Schedule unhurried Scripture and prayer before activity (Psalm 46:10). 2. Serve from overflow • Let devotion shape motives, attitudes, and endurance (Galatians 5:13; Romans 12:1). 3. Guard against distractions • Limit “many things” that crowd out “one thing” (Hebrews 12:1). 4. Invite Christ into the tasks • Acknowledge His presence while working, turning chores into worship (Colossians 3:23-24). 5. Practice Sabbath rhythms • Regular rest points recalibrate hearts toward the Lord (Exodus 20:8-10). Living It Out Today • Block daily time for Bible reading and prayer before emails, chores, or media. • Evaluate commitments: which serve Christ’s purposes, which feed worry? • Pair tasks with worship—play Scripture audio, pray for others while cooking, driving. • Share responsibilities in community, as the early church did (Acts 6:2-4), keeping word-centered focus. • Celebrate small moments at Jesus’ feet throughout the day, not only in long sessions. Encouragement for the Journey The Lord’s gentle “Martha, Martha” still calls us. He delights in our service yet longs first for our company. Choose the good portion daily; then let every act of service flow naturally, joyfully, and fruitfully from time spent with Him. |
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