Since the beginning of time, woman(and man) has had the power to choose. No matter how far we run from it in life, the question we will ultimately face every time is “What do I choose?”
What do I choose to do with this suffering? What do I choose to do with this decision? What do I choose to do in this relationship? What do I choose to do with God? What do I choose to do with this habit? The list goes on and on.
The Mary and Martha story in Luke 10 is often talked about in terms of Martha’s choice to take care of the “serving” and Mary’s choice to sit and learn at Jesus feet. Sometimes Martha get’s a bad rap.
I don’t believe for a moment that Martha didn’t love Jesus or that she was doing what needed to be done. The problem was her focus and attitude. According to Luke 10::41, she was troubled and anxious about many things.
Sounds like a momhood to me! An endless to do list. A check off list of expectations. A pile of laundry, bills, not to mention Johnny’s homework, or Julie’s girlfriend chaos. No wonder she is anxious and troubled.
But, here’s the good news! In the next verse, Jesus speaks some very powerful words that illustrate the power of our choice.
“There is need of only one or but a few things.” When we are faced with the choices of life it always comes back to keeping it simple. In any given situation, Jesus gives us the key to making the right decision or the good choice. Here it is.
“Mary has chosen the good portion, (that which is to her advantage), which shall not be taken away from her.”
Do you get that? Mary chose what would be good for her, what would bring good to her, and what could not be taken from her.
She knew that sitting and learning from Jesus would bring life to her when the dishes and the food and service, though necessary, was less important. Sometimes paper plates are enough!
Whatever you are facing in life remember this:
1. The first step in making the right choice or decision is to sit with Jesus. Learn from what He says, who He is, and what He does. Listen for His voice in the stillness.
2. The second step is to make sure your choice empowers you. (works to your advantage) A good choice will always make you better. It will bring you good things in the long run. Things like peace, freedom, positive outlook, love, and joy.
3. The third step is to choose the thing that can’t be taken from you. Don’t settle for something that is temporary. Effective choices are those that bring lasting results. They create a life that is solid in any circumstance because they are based on sacred principles that have eternal results. For example: You can have a change in your financial circumstances (loss of job, setback, unexpected bills) but your choice to walk in faith, giving to others freely, believing for God’s provision will create an atmosphere of abundant blessings that can’t be taken from you!
God has given you the power of choice. No one else can choose for you. What will you choose today? I hope you choose life in whatever concerns you!