By Benescke Janse van Rensburg

Why are you a believer? Because you are scared you will end up in hell? Or is it because you truly desire a relationship with God?

Martha and Mary are a good example. The task-oriented sister on the one hand, versus the relationship-driven sister on the other – or that is the conclusion drawn from the story in Luke 10. Jesus visited their home in Bethany. Martha worked hard to prepare the food, while Mary sat listening to Jesus' sermon. When Martha came to complain about it, Jesus answered: “Martha, Martha, you are worried and troubled about many things. Only a few things are important, even just one. Mary has chosen the good thing. It will not be taken away from her.”(Luke 10: 41-42).

What was that good thing that Mary chose? She was present in Jesus' presence. Martha was in the presence of Jesus, but not present.

Today, we still have to be aware of that trap. We easily fall in the habit of praying for blessings because we do not want to suffer. Or we pray for protection because we fear for our own or our loved ones’ safety. We even follow a well-planned prayer list, because we are afraid we will leave out something. Yet, we never stop to listen to what God wants to say to us through His Holy Spirit. We are in His presence, but not present.

In Hosea 6:6 we discover something of God’s desire for a relationship with each of us when He says: I want you to show love, not offer sacrifices. I want you to know me more than I want burnt offerings.

Why are you a believer? May it be to grow closer to God daily. Let's focus on Him and celebrate who He is. Let's choose the good thing Mary chose: To be present in His presence. God bless.

Father God, thank you for Your love and grace. Please forgive me for times I have been in Your presence but not present. Please help me to hear when You speak to me through Your Spirit. I ask it in the Name of Jesus Christ. Amen.

Feedback: For feedback on the series or if you have a testimony to share about something God did in your life, please send me an email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. It's always nice to hear from readers. Benescke