Choosing What Really Matters

CHOOSING WHAT REALLY MATTERS

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Luke 10:38-42

"Now it came to pass, as they went, that he entered into a certain village: and a certain woman named Martha received him into her house. And she had a sister called Mary, which also sat at Jesus’ feet, and heard his word. But Martha was cumbered about much serving, and came to him, and said, Lord, dost thou not care that my sister hath left me to serve alone? Bid her therefore that she help me. And Jesus answered and said unto her, Martha, Martha, thou art careful and troubled about many things: But one thing is needful: and Mary hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her."

Supporting Texts: Matthew 6:33, Psalm 27:4, John 15:5, Ecclesiastes 12:13, Proverbs 4:7

INTRODUCTION:

In our fast-paced world, many people are overwhelmed by activity and distracted by responsibilities. However, Jesus teaches a powerful lesson in the house of Martha and Mary: It is not every good thing that is needful—only one thing is truly essential. This message calls us to value divine presence over busyness, and to choose what really matters.

1. MARTHA WELCOMED JESUS BUT WAS DISTRACTED

a) Good Intentions Without Right Priorities (Luke 10:38–40)

Martha's desire to serve was noble, but her focus missed the moment.

b) Service Can Become a Distraction (Luke 10:40)

She allowed her tasks to rob her of her time with the Lord.

c) Anxiety Steals the Joy of the Presence (Luke 10:41)

She was troubled, not because of lack, but because of misplaced focus.

d) Busyness Without Devotion Is Emptiness (Matthew 7:22–23)

Activity is not a substitute for intimacy with God.

Biblical Example: The church of Ephesus in Revelation 2:2–4, which had works but lost its first love.

2. MARY SAT AT JESUS' FEET TO LEARN

a) True Devotion Begins with Stillness (Psalm 46:10)

She chose to be still and focus on Jesus' words.

b) Hearing the Word Brings Transformation (Romans 10:17)

Her posture represented humility and hunger for truth.

c) Intimacy with Jesus Must Be Prioritised (John 15:5)

Fruitfulness comes from abiding, not just serving.

d) Those Who Sit at His Feet Find Peace (Isaiah 26:3)

She enjoyed what Martha was missing—peace and purpose.

Biblical Example: Samuel as a child, learning at the feet of Eli and hearing the voice of God (1 Samuel 3:1–10).

3. JESUS VALUED MARY'S CHOICE ABOVE MARTHA'S SERVICE

a) God Sees Beyond the Physical (1 Samuel 16:7)

What seemed passive was actually powerful in God's eyes.

b) The Right Choice Is Often Countercultural (Romans 12:2)

Society applauds performance, but God desires presence.

c) Spiritual Investment Is Eternal (Matthew 6:19–20)

Mary’s time with Jesus would outlast any meal.

d) God Defends Those Who Seek Him (Luke 10:42)

Jesus affirmed her choice publicly, despite Martha’s protest.

Biblical Example: David chose to inquire in the temple (Psalm 27:4) above all other pursuits.

4. MANY THINGS TROUBLE US, BUT ONE THING IS NEEDFUL

a) Distraction Is a Weapon of the Enemy (Luke 21:34)

Worry and activity often draw us away from the essential.

b) A Divided Heart Cannot Please God (James 1:8)

Many Christians are trying to do too much without spiritual focus.

c) Peace Comes from Prioritising the Presence (Philippians 4:6–7)

Mary had no anxiety—she had chosen wisely.

d) God Wants Us to Simplify and Focus (Ecclesiastes 12:13)

The fear of God and obedience are the true goals.

Biblical Example: Solomon, who began with wisdom and intimacy, later got distracted by many women and riches (1 Kings 11:1–4).

5. THE GOOD PART WILL NEVER BE TAKEN AWAY

a) Eternal Rewards Await Those Who Choose Wisely (2 Corinthians 4:17–18)

Heaven remembers time spent at His feet.

b) God Protects and Preserves Spiritual Investment (Luke 10:42)

Mary’s reward was secured; she had chosen the good part.

c) Spiritual Growth Begins with Focus (Proverbs 4:7)

Wisdom starts with valuing the Word above all.

d) The Word Heard Today Sustains Tomorrow (Isaiah 55:11)

What Mary received would produce results for life.

Biblical Example: Joshua remained at the tabernacle long after Moses left (Exodus 33:11), and later became Israel’s leader.

CONCLUSION:

This story is not about condemning Martha’s service but about elevating Mary’s choice. As believers—especially in this fast-paced generation—we must constantly evaluate whether we are distracted or devoted. It’s time to choose what really matters: the presence of Jesus and His Word.

PRAYER POINTS:

1. Lord, help me to choose the better part daily.

2. Deliver me from every form of distraction that steals my time with You.

3. Make me a true disciple who values Your Word above all.

4. Restore every spiritual virtue I’ve lost due to busyness.

5. Let my life produce fruit that brings You glory.