How can we prioritize "the one thing" in our daily lives today? Scripture Focus “but only one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion, and it will not be taken away from her.” (Luke 10:42) Understanding the One Thing - Mary sat at Jesus’ feet, receiving His words; Martha was overwhelmed by many tasks - Jesus affirmed Mary’s choice as the single essential priority - The text presents a clear call: fellowship with Christ Himself outranks every other demand Why the One Thing Matters Today - Christ remains the same yesterday, today, and forever; His presence is still the believer’s greatest treasure - Every duty finds its true order and power when centered on Him - Neglecting this center drains joy, clarity, and spiritual fruitfulness Practical Ways to Choose the Good Portion Each Day Morning • Begin the day with unhurried Scripture reading; even fifteen focused minutes realign the heart • Read aloud to engage mind and voice, then meditate on a key phrase throughout the day Throughout the Day • Set brief, scheduled pauses (phone reminders help) to re-acknowledge Christ’s presence • Turn routine tasks—commuting, dishes, exercise—into moments of praise or Scripture memory Evening • Review the day with gratitude, confess distractions, and note fresh mercies • Read a psalm or gospel paragraph before sleep to end the day at His feet Weekly Rhythm • Guard a Sabbath segment for extended worship, study, and physical rest • Limit digital input to keep the mind quiet enough to hear His voice Guarding Against Distractions - Identify time-stealers (news scrolls, social media loops, unnecessary meetings) and set boundaries - Batch household chores instead of letting them dominate every spare minute - Keep a simple, realistic to-do list; finish tasks promptly so they serve rather than rule Living Out the One Thing in Various Roles Home • Pray Scripture over family members while folding laundry or preparing meals • Play worship music that keeps truth ringing through the house Work • Arrive a few minutes early to dedicate the day to Christ • Let integrity and kindness flow from continual awareness of His gaze Church • Approach gatherings eager to meet the Lord, not merely fulfill duty • Serve in ministries that enable quality time with Him rather than replace it Rest and Recreation • Choose activities that refresh the body without dulling the soul • Use walks, hobbies, or coffee breaks to reflect on His goodness Encouragement from Other Scriptures “One thing I have asked of the LORD; this is what I desire: to dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to gaze on the beauty of the LORD and seek Him in His temple.” (Psalm 27:4) “Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize of God’s heavenly calling in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 3:13-14) “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added unto you.” (Matthew 6:33) Conclusion: A Lifelong Pursuit Mary’s choice was not a momentary preference but a settled priority. By continually placing fellowship with Jesus at the center—through Scripture, prayerful pauses, and purposeful living—believers today enjoy the same good portion that can never be taken away. |
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