Getting Caught Up in the List

 

Lately, I’ve been catching myself getting too caught up in completing my “to-do” list.

And the crazy thing about that trap is…

It never actually ends.

There is always something else to add with being a mother, wife, having goals, bills and keeping up with responsibilities

And I know I’m not the only one who feels this way.

The Pressure to Do Everything

I can stress about:

• being organized
• keeping the house clean
• finding time to exercise
• cooking meals
• getting everything ready

…all while trying to make sure I’m not wasting any time during this waiting season.

But lately, I can’t stop thinking about Mary and Martha.

Martha was so caught up in doing that she couldn’t see what was most important in that moment.

Mary knew.

She sat at Jesus’ feet and listened to what He was saying.

“You Are Worried About Many Things”

Martha complained to Jesus, and His response is something I think both you and I need to hear:

“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.”
— Luke 10:41–42

That verse stopped me in my tracks.

Because if I’m honest…

I know the value of acquiring wisdom exceeds all other pursuits.

And yet, somehow, I still find myself getting consumed by stress, distractions, and endless lists.

It’s Time to Reel It Back In

The Holy Spirit has been nudging me to dive deeper into God’s Word.

Because that is where wisdom is found.

That is where insight and understanding come from.

Not from productivity.
Not from perfectly completed lists.
Not from trying to control every detail of life.

But from sitting at the feet of Jesus.

Seeking Wisdom First

Imagine what the Lord would do if we pursued His presence with the same focus and intensity that we give our schedules, goals, and daily responsibilities.

Or even more than that.

 “Get wisdom; get insight; do not forget, and do not turn away from the words of  my mouth. Do not forsake her, and she will keep you; love her, and she will guard you. The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom, and whatever you get, get insight.” 

—Proverbs 4:5-7 (ESV)

Read About Mary and Martha

Luke 10:38–42

At the Home of Martha and Mary

As Jesus and his disciples were on their way, he came to a village where a woman named Martha opened her home to him. She had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord's feet listening to what he said. But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. She came to him and asked, "Lord, don't you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!" "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.'"