Choose the Good Portion:

Context:

• Jesus had just explained to the lawyer how to live, how to love, and who to love.
• He then entered Bethany, a village on the eastern side of the Mount of Olives.
• He was welcomed into the house of Martha and her younger sister Mary.
• Mary sat at the Lord’s feet, listening to his teaching.

Luke 10:40 “...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...”

What was Martha’s problem?

• She wasn’t sitting at the Lord’s feet because she was distracted.
• She didn’t want her sister Mary to sit at the Lord’s feet either.
• She wanted Jesus to fix the problem.

Have you ever had a problem you wanted Jesus to fix?

Luke 10:41-42 “...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...”

Did Jesus fix Martha’s problem?

• Jesus didn’t do what Martha wanted Him to do.
• Jesus identified Martha’s distraction.
• Jesus revealed that choices can be made.

How does Jesus respond to your problems?

• He doesn’t necessarily do what we want Him to do.
• He helps us see our issues more clearly.
• He directs us toward choices that are ours to make.

What is the one thing that is necessary?

• Matthew 6:33 “...But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you...”
• Nothing of a worldly nature would seem to be more important than providing for the needs of Jesus.
• Nothing is as important as being in the presence of Jesus.
• If a person loves God and has an interest in His Kingdom, lesser things do not easily distract them.

How can the cares of this world distract us from being in the presence of Jesus?

How can we become irresponsible regarding things of this world?

Psalm 119:30-31 “...I have chosen the way of faithfulness; I set your rules before me. I cling to your testimonies, O LORD; let me not be put to shame!...”