In what ways can we choose the "better part" in our spiritual lives? Setting the Scene Luke 10:42: “but only one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion, and it will not be taken away from her.” Martha’s busy service was commendable, yet Jesus pointed to Mary’s quiet, attentive fellowship as the “good portion” (the “better part”). That single sentence becomes a compass for our own choices today. Recognizing the “Better Part” • Unhurried communion with Christ—listening before doing • Delighting in His Word (Psalm 119:162) • Resting in His presence rather than scrambling for human approval (Psalm 46:10) • Letting devotion fuel service, not replace it (John 15:5) Practical Ways to Choose the Better Part 1. Schedule daily uninterruptible time with Jesus • Silence phone, close laptop, open Bible • Read slowly, asking, “Lord, what are You saying?” (Joshua 1:8) 2. Cultivate a listening posture throughout the day • Whisper thanks while driving, pray brief Scriptures while waiting in line 3. Guard a weekly Sabbath margin • Set aside chores long enough to be still (Exodus 20:8-10; Mark 2:27) 4. Let Scripture shape decisions before emotions do • Memorize key verses; recall them when choices arise (Psalm 119:11) 5. Serve from overflow, not obligation • Say yes to ministries that fit your gifting; say no when hurried activism would crowd out worship (Luke 10:40-41) 6. Prioritize corporate worship • Hearing the Word with others magnifies joy and accountability (Hebrews 10:24-25) 7. Seek first the kingdom in practical planning • Budget, calendar, and goal-setting that place Christ at the center (Matthew 6:33) Cautions Against Missing the Better Part • Chronic busyness that erodes spiritual hunger • Substituting information about God for intimacy with Him • Allowing worry to drown out His voice (Philippians 4:7) • Measuring worth by productivity rather than proximity to Jesus Encouraging Promises for Those Who Choose It • Lasting peace—John 14:27 • Fruitful living—John 15:5 • Guidance—Psalm 32:8 • Eternal reward—1 Corinthians 3:14 • Unshakeable fellowship—Revelation 3:20 Putting It All Together Choosing the better part is not a one-time event but a pattern: prioritize Christ’s presence, listen to His Word, and let that relationship steer every activity. When fellowship precedes function, both our souls and our service flourish—and, as Jesus assured, “it will not be taken away.” |
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