“Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “you are worried and upset about many things, but few things are needed-or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.” NIV Luke 10:41-42

“Martha, Martha,” thou art careful and troubled about many things; But one thing is needful; and Mary hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her.” KJV

Goodness knows you could slip my name, “Melanie, Melanie…” into that sentence on a regular basis.  As a special needs momma, I often justify and rationalize my being troubled as part of the job description. My son is almost 18, and there are lots of things I used to be troubled about, that I now take in stride.  I’ve learned to give a lot to God, and trust His divine workings in my life and my son’s.  But there are new concerns on every horizon.  A new year brings new worries. New phases and stages always mean new troubles.

But this new year I am reminded of the loving re-direction that Jesus provided to Martha.  He answered all her “many things” with one simple solution. One thing is needful, “indeed only one” is the way the NIV puts it.  Hold on a second, Jesus, I’ve got a multi-page, single-spaced list of all the things that are needful. But if I review that list, and the root of each of those worries, I would have to admit that setting it aside and sitting at the feet of Jesus, would address every single one.

In his presence I renew my peace of mind, my strength of spirit, and my clarity of thought.  All of the challenges I currently face will be greatly aided by those benefits.  Whether they are negative thoughts, or actual to-do items that have me struggling, His presence re-sets me to a place where I am more equipped and more confident in moving forward.  I can testify that starting a morning sitting at his feet, directs my physical steps on a much more effective pathway throughout the day.  If you can, take a moment to read the whole story of Martha’s situation beginning in Luke 10:38.

A prayer for today: Thank you Lord, that you promise me new mercies every morning. Please help me to take the time to collect them and apply them to my life.  Your presence is the extra boost I need, to stop being busy and streamline my day. I know that if I walk out the steps you have ordered for me, I will walk in grace and empowerment.  Lord remind me that your presence is where I should go to receive your direction and your strength. 

What do you think?  Today’s post is a much shorter format than my normal style?  For 2018 I have decided to go with shorter, quicker reads for you.  Let me know what you think! If you’re wondering about the book in the photo, our entire church is currently reading Reset by Bob Sorge, who is one of my favorite authors and speakers.