EquipHer Vol. 29: "How to Measure Our Productivity? "నమూనా

Day 3 – Eternal vs. Urgent

True growth comes when we stop chasing what is urgent, and start investing in an eternal return.

Jesus never allowed the pressures or expectations of others—crowds demanding miracles, urgent requests by the disciples, constant noise of the people—to pull Him away from what carried eternal value. The investment of His time, energy, and attention were intentional. Jesus understood that every decision was an investment, and the only return that truly mattered was eternal.

This truth is clearly seen in an encounter at the home of Martha and Mary in Bethany (Luke 10:38–42). As Jesus entered their home, Martha became overwhelmed with all the chores involved in hosting guests, and prioritized every detail with high urgency. She was convinced that her preparation work around the home was of utmost importance, and even expressed frustration to Jesus about lack of help from her sister Mary.

However, Jesus’ response revealed what truly mattered: “Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her” (Luke 10:42, NIV). His words do not diminish the value of Martha’s service, but they reveal a different order of priorities. In His eyes, the time spent sitting at His feet and listening to His Word carries a value that no other activity can replace. It is this time that equips us to face everything else with the right perspective.

Oftentimes, what seems less urgent in the world’s eyes—like dwelling in His presence or meditating on His Word—is precisely what yields the highest return in our lives. They anchor our lives in what truly matters: building what produces an eternal return.

Putting God and His priorities first does not mean neglecting work or daily responsibilities. It means establishing the right order. Only then does everything else find balance and allow us to operate and produce at our highest potential.

You may not notice, but urgency often acts like a silent thief: it robs time from your relationships, connection with God, and the choices that build what lasts beyond this life. Today, God is inviting you to pause and do something different: to slow down intentionally, so you can choose wisely where to invest your energy, ensuring that every action leaves fruit that outlives the present moment.

Prayer: Lord, help me not to waste my time and energy on things that seem urgent but hold no eternal value or impact. Teach me to distinguish what carries eternal weight from what fades, and give me the courage to choose according to Your priorities rather than the pressures around me. I want my work and my choices to be investments for eternity, bearing fruit for Your Kingdom and reflecting Your will. Amen.