Resources/Articles
"...But One Thing Is Needful..."
Text: Luke 10.38-42
In this brief conversation, something is said about Martha that is typical of all of us: “…but Martha was cumbered about many things…” (vv.40-41). We are like Martha much more often than we are like Mary in our lives. We become distracted by things to the point that it hinders are salvation.
Needs such as jobs, careers, school, growing up, family, health, retirement, etc., have their place in life on earth. However, these should be subordinate to spiritual matters. My salary amount will not matter one day. My level of schooling will not matter. Whether I taught my child to fish or how well I maintained a good cholesterol level…or anything else you want to put into this scenario: none of them will matter one day. Why? Because all of these things will one day pass away.
One day we won’t regret the choice of school, jobs, or not allowing a child to experience a certain activity. However, if our greatest need is not addressed, we will regret it. Remember Jesus’ words to Martha about the “good part”: It “shall not be taken away from her” (v. 42).
Long ago, Solomon defined a man’s priority. In Ecclesiastes 12.13-14, he taught, “Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole duty of man. For God will bring every work into judgment, including every secret thing, whether good or evil.”
Search your own soul and consider: Are you giving attention to the one thing that is needful?
