How can we prioritize Jesus' teachings over distractions in our daily lives? The Scene at Bethany: Busy Martha vs. Focused Mary Luke 10:41-42 records, “Martha, Martha,” the Lord replied, “you are worried and upset about many things. But only one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion, and it will not be taken away from her.” Mary sat at Jesus’ feet; Martha was distracted by service. The contrast draws a clear, timeless lesson: Jesus’ teaching takes precedence over every competing demand. Recognizing Modern Distractions • Overflowing calendars, constant notifications, endless streaming options • Vocations that press for overtime and side hustles • Social expectations to be endlessly “available” and “productive” These pressures mirror Martha’s whirlwind. They feel urgent, yet they can edge out the “one thing necessary.” Why Jesus’ Words Deserve First Place • Jesus is Lord and speaks with absolute authority (Matthew 28:18). • His words give life and stability amid chaos (John 6:68). • Scripture, “God-breathed,” equips us for “every good work” (2 Timothy 3:16-17). • His kingdom is the ultimate priority: “Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness” (Matthew 6:33). Practical Steps to Choose “the Good Portion” 1. Schedule daily, unhurried time in Scripture before other tasks begin. 2. Read with expectancy, asking, “What does the text plainly say, and how does it call me to respond today?” 3. Memorize a verse each week; carry it on a card or phone lock screen. 4. Turn commutes or chores into listening sessions for audio Bible or Christ-centered teaching. 5. Set device boundaries: silence non-essential alerts during Bible time. 6. Serve with a Mary-heart: begin every ministry task with prayerful attentiveness to Jesus, guarding against activity without intimacy. Guardrails that Keep the Focus • Weekly Sabbath rhythm—one day set apart from ordinary labor (Exodus 20:8-10). • Shared accountability—meet with fellow believers who encourage Scripture application (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Regular evaluation—review calendar and habits monthly, removing subtle time thieves. • Immediate obedience—act promptly on insights received; delayed obedience breeds forgetfulness (James 1:22-25). Encouragement from Other Scriptures • Psalm 27:4: “One thing I have asked of the LORD… to gaze upon the beauty of the LORD.” • Colossians 3:16: “Let the word of Christ richly dwell within you.” • John 15:7: “If you remain in Me and My words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you.” • Philippians 4:8-9: fixing thoughts on what is true and excellent leads to God’s peace. Living the “One Thing” Lifestyle Choose, like Mary, the “good portion.” Carve out deliberate space for Jesus’ voice, guard it fiercely, and let everything else flow from that center. Distractions will clamor, but His unchanging words remain the sure foundation for every ordinary day. |
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