Pursue the Better Portion

The modern world swirls with complexity. We live amidst a constant deluge of information, surrounded by endless options and the pressure to be ever-aware, ever-responsive. At times, it feels nearly impossible to catch our breath, let alone find solid ground. Yet even in the middle of this storm of uncertainty, there is a still, steady voice inviting us to focus on the one thing that matters most.

This is not just a modern problem. The human condition has always bent toward distraction, confusion, and the illusion that if we could just manage it all, we’d find peace. But Scripture tells a different story. It speaks of a God who doesn’t leave us in a state of perpetual disorientation, but lovingly leads us to reorient our hearts and lives around one clear, life-giving truth.

The Psalms: A King’s Longing for God

King David, no stranger to complex leadership, familial strife, and political threats, penned words that strike deep at the heart of simplicity in pursuit. In Psalm 27:4, he declares:

"One thing have I asked of the Lord,
that will I seek after:
that I may dwell in the house of the Lord
all the days of my life,
to gaze upon the beauty of the Lord
and to inquire in his temple."

David wasn’t seeking refuge in a temple of stone. His cry was for intimate closeness with God Himself to dwell with Him, behold His beauty, and commune with Him continually. His "one thing" was not a resolution to a problem, a new strategy, or even peace from his enemies. It was God.

Today, studies show that over 77% of Americans report feeling regularly stressed, often due to trying to manage too many things at once. David’s words offer us a stark contrast a singular focus that steadies the soul.

The Apostle Paul: A Singular Passion for Christ

Centuries later, another man living under pressure echoed David’s heart. The Apostle Paul, writing from prison, revealed the secret that enabled him to endure incredible hardship with unwavering focus. He said in Philippians 3:13–14:

"But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead,
I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus."

For Paul, the "one thing" was to know Christ and be found in Him. He wasn’t seeking fame, security, or freedom from suffering. His entire being was oriented around the surpassing worth of knowing Jesus a pursuit that reframed everything else in his life.

The Harvard Study of Adult Development, one of the longest studies on happiness, confirms this principle in another way: deep, meaningful relationships are the key to lasting happiness and fulfillment. Paul had found the deepest relationship of all not with a philosophy or a distant deity, but with the living Christ. That relationship became his singular aim.

The Words of Jesus: One Thing is Necessary

And then there’s Jesus Himself. On His way to the cross, He stopped in the home of Mary and Martha. While Martha busied herself with many good things, Mary sat at Jesus’ feet. When Martha protested, Jesus gently corrected 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)

Jesus made it plain: He is the one thing. Not just a teacher, not just a miracle worker, not just a moral example. He is the good portion. When everything else fades, when every possession and title and plan is stripped away, He remains.

Later, He confronted a rich young ruler who seemed to have everything but lacked this one essential thing. Jesus told him, “Sell all that you have… and come, follow me.” The man walked away sad, for his many things outweighed his desire for the one thing.

Choosing What Cannot Be Taken

We are not so different. We, too, are tempted to cling to our “many things” the digital distractions, the professional goals, the need to be in control. But the voice of Jesus still calls, gently and clearly: “Follow Me.” The invitation hasn’t changed.

When we make Christ our singular pursuit to know Him, to love Him, to walk with Him we experience what the world cannot offer: peace that passes understanding, joy that defies circumstance, and a foundation that stands firm no matter the storm.

This isn’t about neglecting our responsibilities or ignoring the realities of life. It’s about seeing everything through the lens of this one thing. Whether we’re folding laundry, leading a meeting, or navigating a personal crisis, we do it with our eyes fixed on Jesus.

Because when we choose the good portion, we’re not just choosing better time management or a spiritual refresh. We’re choosing what will never be taken away.

So let the words of David, Paul, and Jesus lead you today. In a world of countless voices, may you listen for the one. In a life filled with many things, may you always choose the one thing that truly matters.

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