The One Thing Needed
Presence over hurry.
Jesus gently reorders a busy heart.
The big idea
Service is good, but sitting at Jesus' feet is what lasts.
What does “The One Thing Needed” walk through?
The Good Part
Luke 10:42 · KJV
But one thing is needful: and Mary hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her.
In plain English
Only one thing is really necessary. Mary picked it — and it won't be taken from her.
Distracted by Good Things
Martha did everything but the one thing. Busyness can crowd out presence.
Be Still
Psalm 46:10 · KJV
Be still, and know that I am God.
In plain English
Stop striving. Be quiet. Remember that I am God.
Choose the Lasting Thing
The dishes will wait. Time at his feet is never wasted.
Pray
Jesus, quiet my hurry. Help me choose presence over a longer to-do list. Amen.
Write it down
What 'good' busyness is crowding out time with God?
You finished: The One Thing Needed
Mary chose what couldn't be taken from her. Today, choose it too.
Which passages does this journey use?
2 passages, drawn from Luke 10:42, Psalm 46:10. Every verse appears here in the King James text with a plain-English line beside it, so you can read it without a commentary open. Allow about 5 minutes for the whole thing, or 5 short sittings.
- Luke 10:42
- Psalm 46:10
Read any of these in full on the complete KJV, or look the wording up independently at Blue Letter Bible.
More in Scripture Themes
All Scripture Themes →When Worry Won't Quit
Trading anxiety for trust.
A Grateful Heart
Counting gifts, not gaps.
Following Jesus
What it means to come after him.
The Upside-Down Kingdom
Blessings the world overlooks.
Who Is My Neighbor
Mercy that crosses the road.
How Jesus Taught Us to Pray
A pattern for honest prayer.