Finding Stillness in a Busy WorldSample

The Three “D’s of Destruction: Distraction, Doubt, and Discouragement

Often when the busyness and chaos of life creeps in we can find ourselves distracted like Martha. Satan isn’t very creative. He uses the same old tactics today as he has always used. The underlying tactic is simple: get God’s people to take their eyes off of Jesus so that they will focus on their circumstances. His strategy works quickly to throw you off track and lead you astray.

Soon you’ll be wondering when you got so far away from the Lord and wonder why He doesn’t care? And then you are completely vulnerable to an attack. At this point your calling suffers and doubt does its dirty work. So how do we combat these off-putting feelings?

Jesus called Martha “distracted.” Was she caught up in the details of preparing a meal for Jesus and His disciples? Of course she was. But didn’t someone have to be? It’s necessary to prepare a meal as we all know food doesn’t fix itself. But after doing some digging on this verse, Martha’s “distraction” is interpreted as a worry or anxiety to the point of distress. That takes her distraction to a different level.

Honestly, as a mom, I resemble Martha more than Mary. I can rush around doing “what needs to be done,” while missing the glimpses of Jesus all around me. Can you relate? Although it’s challenging and goes against our culture, we need to make a conscious effort to slow down and employ the example set by Mary. Jesus said, “Mary has discovered it, and it will not be taken away from her.” (Luke 10:42b)

Even though Martha’s efforts were far from trivial, her preparations were ill-timed. All her stewing and anxiousness became a detraction and took away from the true purpose of Jesus’ visit in the first place. His agenda was to rest; Martha’s agenda was to “get things done.” Our time with Jesus should be simple and slow, freely coming to Him to escape the busyness of the day and placing all our affection on Him.

The Bible says we are to delight in God (Psalm 37:4). As we’re intentional in our time with Jesus, we let the phone ring, the chores wait, and take a break from our social media accounts. Let us make the effort to sit at His feet and enjoy Him rather than miss Him like Martha.