The Good Portion: Choosing Presence Over Performance
- Kristin Smith
- Apr 9
- 2 min read
Scripture Focus
“But the Lord answered her, ‘Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things, but one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion, which will not be taken away from her.’”
— Luke 10:41–42 (ESV)
Devotional Reflection
It’s easy to sympathize with Martha. She was doing the good and necessary work of hospitality, and yet she is gently corrected. Jesus doesn’t shame her for serving—He invites her to see what’s better. Mary, sitting at His feet, had chosen the good portion.
The words Jesus uses are striking: “anxious and troubled about many things.” Don’t we know that feeling well? We spin in circles trying to manage, perform, and achieve—only to discover we’ve lost sight of the only thing truly needed: Him.
Simplicity isn’t a slower schedule; it’s a reordered heart. When we put Jesus at the center, everything else falls into its proper place. The invitation is not to abandon our tasks, but to anchor them in presence. Mary didn’t do more. She simply knew who was worth sitting still for.
Inhale Truth, Exhale Trust
Breath Prayer:
Inhale: One thing is needed.
Exhale: I choose You, Lord.
How to Practice a Breath Prayer:
Pause when you feel pulled in too many directions.
Breathe deeply and slowly repeat today’s prayer.
Let the words refocus your attention on Jesus, the “good portion.”
Consider setting this prayer as a reminder on your phone during your busiest hour today.
Practical Application
Today, name your distractions. Write down everything that’s demanding your mental space. Then prayerfully ask: which of these is necessary? Where can I choose the “better portion” by slowing down and making space for Jesus in my day?
Journal Prompt
What are the “many things” you’re anxious or troubled about today? What would it look like to choose the good portion instead—to sit at Jesus’ feet, even in the midst of responsibility?
Closing Prayer
Jesus, You are the one thing necessary. My life is full of demands, distractions, and divided attention. But You offer something better—Yourself. Help me to sit with You, to listen to You, to let everything else be shaped by Your presence. Simplify my soul and teach me to choose You above all else. Amen.
Invitation to Live with Truth, Goodness, and Beauty
Truth reminds us that only one thing truly matters. Goodness is found in the presence of Christ, not in our performance. Beauty is revealed in undivided attention and quiet devotion. Today, make space for the “good portion”—and rest in what cannot be taken away.
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