In his book Freedom From the Tyranny of the Urgent, Charles Hummel notes, “Tension and frustrations mount when we are performing the wrong tasks or trying to cram too many activities into a given period. A critical spirit develops and we begin to judge and condemn others for what they do or don’t do.”

But Martha was distracted with much serving.

Luke 10:40

When Jesus went to visit Mary and Martha, each woman reacted differently. Martha, desiring to be a “hostess with the mostest” worked so hard at it – and without help from her sister – that she became embittered. She even chastised Jesus for not instructing her sister to help out. But Mary had a different focus and chose to spend time with the Lord listening to His teaching.

Part of the Christian life is discovering the balance between duty and devotion. It is important to spend time in Bible reading and prayer. Just as vital is finding your place to serve. But sitting without serving is powerless, just as serving without sitting is directionless. As you pray today, ask God to help you maintain the right balance – then intercede for America’s leaders to add devotion to God to the duties to the people they perform.

Recommended Reading: Luke 10:38-42