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Everyday Faith 6 steps · about 5 min

Presence Over Performance

He doesn't grade you.

Stop performing for a God who already accepts you.

The big idea

God doesn't want your performance. He wants your presence.

What does “Presence Over Performance” walk through?

1

One Thing Needful

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.

2

Mary or Martha?

Martha was busy. Mary just sat with Jesus. Jesus said Mary chose better. Most of us are Marthas pretending we're being faithful by doing more. Sometimes the most faithful thing is to stop and sit.

3

My Presence Goes With You

Exodus 33:14 · KJV

And he said, My presence shall go with thee, and I will give thee rest.

In plain English

God said: I'll go with you. And I'll give you rest.

“He doesn't need your effort. He wants your attention.”

4

Stop Earning

There's nothing you can do that earns God's love more or less. He already settled it at the cross. Your service flows out of belovedness — it doesn't produce it. Stop hustling. Start sitting.

Pray

Father, take the performing out of me. I want presence over polish. Let me sit at your feet today.

Write it down

Where in your life are you performing for God instead of just being with him?

You finished: Presence Over Performance

You don't have to earn what he's already given. Sit. Receive. Then go.

Which passages does this journey use?

2 passages, drawn from Luke 10:42, Exodus 33:14. 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 6 short sittings.

  • Luke 10:42
  • Exodus 33:14

Read any of these in full on the complete KJV, or look the wording up independently at Blue Letter Bible.

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