Now as they went on their way, Jesus entered a village. And a woman named Martha welcomed him into her house. And she had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet and listened to his teaching. But Martha was distracted with much serving. And she went up to him and said, “Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me to serve alone? Tell her then to help me.” But the Lord answered her, “Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things, but one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion, which will not be taken away from her.
Luke 10:38-42 ESV
Imagine hearing a knock on your door and finding Jesus Christ standing there, ready to stay with you. How would you feel? Naturally, you’d want to do everything possible to make Him comfortable, ensuring He has the best food, drink, and a comfortable place to relax. Anxiety would want to creep in as you try to tend to His needs. You’d be filled with excitement and eagerness to please Him, doing all you can to offer a majestic welcome to the Creator of the universe.
Martha felt this same anxiety when Jesus visited her. She was busy preparing the best meal, hoping to show the greatest hospitality to Jesus and His disciples. Her anxiety, however, caused her to miss the most important aspect of her encounter with Jesus. The one thing she needed was to be still, to sit at His feet and listen.
In our daily walk with the Lord, we often face similar anxieties. We get caught up in activities trying to please Him. Worry occurs because we feel if we don’t perform some tasks, God will withdraw from us. This anxiety drives us to constantly search for ways to deserve His blessings, presence, and favour.
But just as Jesus gently reminded Martha, only one thing is truly necessary—staying in His presence. You don’t have to exhaust yourself with endless efforts, attempting to figure out what might please Him. When you remain close to Him, He shows you what is on His heart and guides you in what He desires. It is in this stillness that we cultivate an intimate relationship with God, free from the anxiety of trying to measure up.
Our focus should be on being with Him, like Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet and listened to His words. This posture allowed her to understand what was truly important. The Kingdom of God is not about food and drink but about righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit. By staying in His presence, you receive His direction and learn how to please Him according to His will.
So, let go of the anxiety that comes from constantly trying to do things for God. Instead, take time to dwell in His presence, to listen, and to know His heart. It is there that you find peace, guidance, and the true essence of your relationship with Him. God is not starving that He needs you to do something for Him to be alright; you’re the one in need of Him.
