Holding the Tension

Learning to hold the tension between business wisdom and spiritual sensitivity—this is the art within the art. Martha knew all about getting things done, pulling the right levers, making things happen. But Mary understood something deeper: the one thing needed was presence.

Don't get me wrong—we need practical knowledge. We need to understand marketing, develop our skills, learn good business practices. But when these things overshadow our time with Jesus, we've got it backwards. Success flows from prioritizing His presence over our performance.

I've learned that anytime I'm truly with Jesus, it motivates and inspires me to get up and walk in what He's designed me to do. It's not either/or—it's both/and, but in the right order. First presence, then performance. First relationship, then results.

This is the kingdom paradox: when you make the secret place your priority, you actually become more productive, more creative, more successful in every way that truly matters. Why? Because you're operating from His strength, His wisdom, His timing.

Creative Prayer Exercise: Today, practice being "Mary" before being "Martha." Whatever creative tasks are on your list, begin with sitting at Jesus' feet. Read His Word. Listen. Worship. Only when you sense His release should you move into your creative work. Notice how this ordering affects both your peace and your productivity.

Prayer: Lord Jesus, forgive me for the times I've been so worried and upset about many things that I've missed the one thing needed—time with You. Help me to choose what is better. Teach me to hold the tension between spiritual depth and practical action, always prioritizing Your presence. May my creative work flow from a place of having sat at Your feet first. In Your precious name, Amen.