One of the biggest struggles in the life of faith is the pressure to “do”. Spoken and unspoken, self-imposed and others-imposed; the expectation to be “doing” something for Christ can distract from the powerful reality of “being” something in Christ.
Martha and Mary are perfect examples of the contrast. When Jesus was in their home, Martha was busy with the work of being hostess while Mary was busy listening to the Lord. Of course the scripture teaches a strong work ethic, but not at the expense of being “at the feet” of Jesus. Consider the Lord’s comment:
“Martha, Martha, you are worried and troubled about many things. But one thing is needed, and Mary has chosen that good part, which will not be taken away.” – Luke 10:41b-42 NKJV
Sometimes we simply need to “be” in the Lord’s presence. It’s not all about trying to keep up with structured reading (that we often fall behind on), getting a “quiet-time” checklist marked off (that can feel robotic), or trying to prove our dedication through activity (that can drain our spirits); it’s about pausing, exhaling, being in His presence, worshipping, and listening…
cchrisholland 
I read a piece from John Piper recently on a similar topic. He said, “The great threat to our prayer and our meditation on the Word of God is good ministry activity” (from his book “Brothers, We Are Not Professionals”). Sometimes I get so caught up with doing (and doing some really good stuff too) that I forget that God simply wants me to “be.”
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Very true Brian. Even “very good things” can get in the way at times. Thanks for your comment. Have a great day!
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Thank you, that was really well said 😉
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That’s true. As one preacher once pointed out, we are human ‘beings’ not human ‘doings.’
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That’s a great phrase. Thanks for commenting!
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You are welcome.
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