Today we are talking about our priorities. The Oxford Dictionary defines a priority as “a thing that is regarded as more important than another.” The definition is simple enough, but talking about and owning our priorities is entirely different. To talk about our particular priorities, we have to evaluate our actions and our habits, which will reveal what is important to us and call us to make changes if needed. As we study, we will be reminded to make Christ the first and foremost priority of our life.
What is one big time waster that you wish you could eliminate from your schedule?
Bible Study Questions
1. Why is it necessary to evaluate our habits and schedules to understand our priorities?
WATCH SERMON RECAP
2. Read Luke 10:38-40. Compare and contrast Martha’s actions vs. Mary’s actions. Which do you think would have been more socially acceptable in Jesus’ day?
Luke 10:38-40 38 As Jesus and the disciples continued on their way to Jerusalem, they came to a certain village where a woman named Martha welcomed him into her home. 39 Her sister, Mary, sat at the Lord’s feet, listening to what he taught. 40 But Martha was distracted by the big dinner she was preparing. She came to Jesus and said, “Lord, doesn’t it seem unfair to you that my sister just sits here while I do all the work? Tell her to come and help me.”
Luke 10:38-40
38 As Jesus and the disciples continued on their way to Jerusalem, they came to a certain village where a woman named Martha welcomed him into her home. 39 Her sister, Mary, sat at the Lord’s feet, listening to what he taught. 40 But Martha was distracted by the big dinner she was preparing. She came to Jesus and said, “Lord, doesn’t it seem unfair to you that my sister just sits here while I do all the work? Tell her to come and help me.”
3. Read Luke 10:41-42. What does Jesus’ response to Mary show about what He values most?
Read Luke 10:41-42
41 But the Lord said to her, “My dear Martha, you are worried and upset over all these details! 42 There is only one thing worth being concerned about. Mary has discovered it, and it will not be taken away from her.”
4. Why was Mary’s choice that night better than Martha’s, according to Jesus’ response?
Application
1. Who can you relate to most, Mary or Martha? Why?
2. What things distract us from spending time with Jesus?
3. What things do you find are distracting you from spending time with Jesus? How can you take steps away from whatever is distracting you?
After reading the verses you have read and the discussion you have had, share with your group one way you can rearrange your priorities to live for what matters most. Finally, end your time together praying, asking God to help you live for eternity instead of the temporary things of this earth.
When it comes to what we prioritize and make time for, everything boils down to what we value the most. So the question we have to answer honestly is, “What are the most important things in life?” Thankfully, we are not left to our own devices. Instead, Scripture clarifies that there are only a handful of things that are worth prioritizing.
Read 1 Corinthians 13:13.
Read Lamentations 5:19.
Read Ephesians 5:15-17
What instructions are followers of Christ given in these verses?
How does this instruction we are given in this Scripture affect your priorities and what is most important to you?
In light of what God’s word says about using our time, what does your calendar look like? If you were to look at each day of your week in 30-minute blocks, where are you not making the best use of your time? What changes do you need to make? Share these things with your group, along with at least one change you will make this week to realign your priorities with God’s.
MONTHLY MEMORY VERSE (Available for download on Sagebrush App)
Luke 2:10 But the angel reassured them. “Don’t be afraid!” he said. “I bring you good news that will bring great joy to all people."
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