Introduction

Good morning, church family. We're going to dive into a powerful scripture today from the book of Luke that will challenge us to examine our priorities, our worries, and the way we worship. It's a familiar story but I want us to look at it with fresh eyes. It's all about two sisters, Mary and Martha.

In the words of Rick Warren, "Worship is not a part of your life; it is your life."

Now, let's read the scripture together, Luke 10:38-42:

"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.'"

Let's open with a word of prayer.

Dear Heavenly Father, we thank You for Your presence with us this morning. As we explore this passage, we ask for Your wisdom and guidance. Help us to understand the power of worship, the pitfalls of worry, and how we can incorporate worship into our daily lives. May our hearts be open and receptive to Your word today. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Let’s dive right in and learn together.

The Power of Worship

Worship is a powerful act, and it's not just about singing songs on Sunday morning. It's about recognizing who God is and giving Him the honor and glory He deserves. It's about acknowledging our dependence on Him and expressing our gratitude for His love, grace, and mercy. Worship is a way of connecting with God on a deep, personal level. It's a way of saying, "God, I see You. I recognize Your power, Your majesty, Your goodness. I acknowledge that You are the Creator of the universe, and yet You care about me."

Mary's actions: She chose to sit at Jesus' feet, listening to His words and soaking in His presence. She chose to prioritize her relationship with Jesus over the tasks and responsibilities that were clamoring for her attention. In doing so, she demonstrated a profound understanding of what it means to worship. Worship is not about doing; it's about being. It's about being in God's presence, being aware of His love, being receptive to His guidance.

Can transform us: As we spend time in God's presence, we are changed. We begin to see things from His perspective. We start to understand His heart for us and for the world. We are filled with His peace, His joy, His love. We are empowered to live out our faith in practical, tangible ways. Worship is not an escape from the world; it's a preparation for engaging with the world. It equips us to be the hands and feet of Jesus, to love and serve others in His name.

Can sustain us: In times of difficulty and uncertainty, worship can be a lifeline. It reminds us of who God is and who we are in Him. It reassures us of His love, His faithfulness, His sovereignty. It helps us to keep our eyes fixed on Him, rather than on our circumstances. Worship doesn't necessarily change our circumstances, but it changes us. It strengthens our faith, renews our hope, and fills us with courage.

A weapon in spiritual warfare: The enemy wants to distract us, discourage us, and make us doubt God's goodness and love. But when we choose to worship, we are declaring our trust in God. We are proclaiming His victory over sin and death. We are resisting the enemy's lies and standing firm in the truth of God's Word. Worship is not a passive act; it's an active, powerful response to the challenges we face.

Jesus commended Mary for choosing what was better: She chose to worship, to sit at Jesus' feet and listen to His words. She chose to prioritize her relationship with Jesus over her tasks and responsibilities. And Jesus said that her choice would not be taken away from her. Worship is a choice, and it's a choice that has eternal significance.

The Pitfalls of Worry

In the story, we see Martha consumed with worry and distraction ... View this full PRO sermon free with PRO