Why Jesus Says: Do Not Be Anxiousናሙና

Anxiety can distract us from the most important thing

“Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things, but one thing is necessary.” (Luke 10:41-42)

When Jesus was traveling through Israel, a woman named Martha welcomed Him and His disciples into her house. This was a good thing to do. Hospitality, in general, is praised in the Bible, and opening your home to Jesus Christ is a very special opportunity to serve Him! Martha took this very seriously. She was busy with all the preparations that had to be made for such a large group of guests. In fact, she was so “anxious and troubled about many things” that she forgot to listen to Jesus’ words. She did not have enough time and peace of mind to sit down and take some “quiet time.” Jesus gently rebuked her for this.

Martha’s anxieties distracted her from the one most important thing. While serving the Lord, she forgot to actually listen to Him.

Her story is a warning for us, too. If you love Jesus and make it a priority to serve Him in various ways, pay attention that your service does not make you “anxious and troubled.” Do not let “many things” prevent you from spending time with the Lord, listening to His voice, and reading His words!

Is there anything that distracts you from the “one thing necessary”? What can you do to break free from those distractions?

We hope this plan encourages you, and that you have a desire to walk more closely with Jesus Christ every day. Please try our Read Scriptures courses, which explore every single Bible book. We also invite you to sign up for our daily devotionals.