Finding Worth and Purpose at Jesus' Feet

Summary

In a world that constantly bombards us with conflicting expectations—whether to be the “super mom” who does it all or the “princess” who expects everything to revolve around her—there is a deeper truth to be found in Christ. The pressure to perform, to be productive, and to meet every demand can be overwhelming, leaving us either exhausted or entitled. Yet, the invitation from Jesus is not to do more, but to be with Him first. The story of Mary and Martha in Luke 10 illustrates this beautifully: while Martha was distracted by her many tasks, Mary chose to sit at Jesus’ feet, prioritizing His presence over her performance.

This isn’t a call to laziness or to neglect our responsibilities. Work is a part of God’s good creation, and we are called to serve and steward what He has given us. But the heart of our service must flow from intimacy with Christ, not from a need to prove ourselves or to meet the world’s impossible standards. When we begin our day at the feet of Jesus—whether that’s in quiet prayer, reading Scripture, or simply inviting Him into our routines—our work, no matter how ordinary, becomes an act of worship. Changing diapers, leading meetings, or serving in the community all declare Christ is King when done for Him.

Mary’s example shows us that time spent with Jesus is not wasted; it is the source of true fruitfulness. Her later act of sacrificial love—anointing Jesus with costly perfume—was born out of her relationship with Him, not out of obligation. In contrast, Martha’s well-intentioned service led to frustration and bitterness because it was disconnected from the presence of Christ. The world measures our worth by productivity, influence, or roles, but Jesus measures it by His cross and our willingness to abide in Him.

Ultimately, the call is the same for all: to kneel at the feet of Jesus, to be filled with His love, and then to rise and serve others in His name. Our value is not in what we do, but in who we are in Christ and how His love overflows through us to the world.

Key Takeaways

- The world’s expectations are often contradictory and unattainable, pushing us toward either relentless productivity or passive entitlement. True freedom comes when we reject these extremes and instead seek to align our lives with God’s priorities, finding our identity and worth in Him rather than in what we accomplish or receive. [49:29]

- Work is a gift from God, woven into creation itself, but it is not meant to define us or become our master. When our work is disconnected from God’s presence, it can breed frustration, comparison, and even bitterness. Only when our service flows from intimacy with Christ does it become life-giving and joyful. [56:35]

- The story of Mary and Martha teaches that the most important thing is not what we do for Jesus, but that we are with Him. Sitting at His feet—being taught, loved, and filled—prepares us for meaningful service. Without this foundation, even our best efforts can become empty or burdensome. [01:01:05]

- Sacrificial service is not a chore when it springs from a heart filled with God’s love. Mary’s extravagant act of anointing Jesus was the natural overflow of her time spent with Him. When we abide in Christ, our desires are transformed, and we find joy in giving ourselves for others, even when it costs us dearly. [01:12:29]

- Our worth is not measured by productivity, influence, or social roles, but by the love of Christ demonstrated on the cross. Whether in the workplace, at home, or in the community, our calling is to abide in Jesus and let His love shape our actions. This is the life that truly glorifies God and draws others to Him. [01:14:15]

Youtube Chapters

[00:00] - Welcome
[45:37] - Opening Worship and Prayer
[46:10] - Celebrating the Women’s Conference
[46:35] - Praying for Local Churches
[47:00] - Blessing Our Church and Community
[47:54] - Introducing Reclaiming Womanhood
[48:46] - The “Super Mom” Expectation
[50:44] - The “Princess” Expectation
[52:53] - The Question of “Enough”
[53:37] - The Productivity Trap
[54:56] - The Need for Balance and Rest
[56:35] - God’s Design for Work
[57:26] - Who Are You Doing It For?
[58:13] - Jesus Invites Us to Be With Him
[59:39] - The Story of Mary and Martha
[01:03:12] - Service Begins at Jesus’ Feet
[01:07:11] - Every Act Can Declare Christ is King
[01:10:14] - The Fruit of Intimacy with Christ
[01:12:29] - Sacrificial Service Flows from Love
[01:14:15] - Our Worth in Christ Alone
[01:15:37] - Closing and Sending Out

Study Guide

Bible Study Discussion Guide

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### Bible Reading

- Luke 10:38-42 (Mary and Martha)
- John 15:5 (“I am the vine, you are the branches…”)
- Colossians 3:23-24 (“Work willingly at whatever you do, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people…”)

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### Observation Questions

1. In the story of Mary and Martha (Luke 10:38-42), what were the different choices each sister made when Jesus visited their home? What was Jesus’ response to Martha’s complaint? [01:00:39]
2. According to John 15:5, what does Jesus say about our ability to be fruitful apart from Him? [01:05:05]
3. In Colossians 3:23-24, who does Paul say we are really serving when we work, and what reward does he mention? [01:08:06]
4. The sermon described two cultural extremes: the “super mom” who tries to do it all, and the “princess” who expects everything to be done for her. What are some examples the pastor gave of these mindsets? [49:29]

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### Interpretation Questions

1. Why do you think Jesus said that Mary had chosen “the better part” by sitting at His feet, even though Martha was busy serving? What does this reveal about Jesus’ priorities for His followers? [01:00:50]
2. The sermon mentioned that work is part of God’s good creation, but it can become a source of frustration or bitterness if disconnected from God’s presence. How does this happen, and what is the solution? [56:35]
3. How does abiding in Christ (John 15:5) change the way we approach our daily tasks and responsibilities? What does it look like for our service to flow from intimacy with Jesus? [01:05:05]
4. The pastor contrasted Mary’s sacrificial act of anointing Jesus with Martha’s frustrated service. What does this teach us about the source and motivation of true, joyful service? [01:12:29]

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### Application Questions

1. The world often measures our worth by productivity, influence, or roles. In what areas of your life do you feel pressure to “do it all” or to prove yourself? How does this affect your relationship with God and others? [49:29]
2. Are there specific routines or responsibilities (at home, work, or church) where you find yourself acting more like Martha—busy, distracted, or even resentful? What would it look like to “sit at Jesus’ feet” in those moments? [01:00:39]
3. The sermon encouraged starting each day with Jesus, even in small ways. What is one practical step you can take this week to prioritize time with God before jumping into your to-do list? [01:06:57]
4. When you serve others—whether it’s changing diapers, leading a meeting, or volunteering—do you see it as an act of worship? Why or why not? How could your perspective shift if you remembered you are serving Christ? [01:07:11]
5. Mary’s act of pouring out expensive perfume was a costly, sacrificial gift born out of her relationship with Jesus. Is there an area where God might be inviting you to serve or give sacrificially—not out of obligation, but out of love? What holds you back? [01:12:29]
6. The pastor said, “Our value is not in what we do, but in who we are in Christ and how His love overflows through us.” How can you remind yourself of your worth in Christ this week, especially when you feel inadequate or overlooked? [01:14:15]
7. Think about a time when your service (at home, work, or church) led to frustration or bitterness. What could you do differently next time to ensure your service flows from intimacy with Jesus rather than from pressure or obligation? [01:04:16]

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Devotional

Day 1: Service that pleases God begins at His feet
True service to God starts not with frantic activity, but with a heart that first sits in His presence, learning from Him and being filled by His love. In the story of Mary and Martha, Martha was overwhelmed by the demands of hospitality and cultural expectations, while Mary chose to sit at Jesus’ feet, listening and receiving. Jesus gently corrected Martha, reminding her that only one thing is truly necessary: to be with Him. When we prioritize time with Jesus, our service flows from a place of intimacy and joy, not bitterness or exhaustion. [01:03:12]

Luke 10:38-42 (ESV)
Now as they went on their way, Jesus entered a village. And a woman named Martha welcomed him into her house. And she had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet and listened to his teaching. But Martha was distracted with much serving. And she went up to him and said, “Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me to serve alone? Tell her then to help me.” But the Lord answered 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.”

Reflection: What is one practical way you can intentionally set aside time to be with Jesus before you begin your daily tasks today?

Day 2: Apart from Jesus, we can do nothing
Jesus teaches that our ability to bear fruit and serve meaningfully comes only from remaining connected to Him. Like branches drawing life from the vine, we are utterly dependent on Christ for strength, wisdom, and effectiveness. When we try to serve or live out our calling apart from Him, our efforts become empty and exhausting. But when we abide in Him, our lives overflow with fruitfulness that brings glory to God and joy to our hearts. [01:05:05]

John 15:5 (ESV)
“I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing.”

Reflection: In what area of your life have you been striving in your own strength? How can you invite Jesus to be the source of your efforts today?

Day 3: Do all things as service to Christ
Every task, whether grand or mundane, becomes sacred when done for Jesus. Scripture calls us to work willingly at whatever we do, not for human approval, but as service to the Lord. This perspective transforms our daily routines—changing diapers, working a job, serving others—into acts of worship. When we remember that Christ is our true master, our hearts are freed from resentment and filled with purpose, knowing that our reward comes from Him. [01:08:06]

Colossians 3:23-24 (ESV)
Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ.

Reflection: What is one ordinary task you can approach today as an act of worship to Jesus, doing it wholeheartedly for Him?

Day 4: Sacrificial love flows from time with Jesus
Mary’s extravagant act of anointing Jesus’ feet with costly perfume was the overflow of a heart transformed by time in His presence. When we let go of busyness and abide with Christ, our love for Him grows and naturally expresses itself in sacrificial service. True generosity and willingness to serve—even when it costs us—are not burdens, but become our heart’s desire as we are filled with God’s Spirit. [01:12:47]

John 12:1-3 (ESV)
Six days before the Passover, Jesus therefore came to Bethany, where Lazarus was, whom Jesus had raised from the dead. So they gave a dinner for him there. Martha served, and Lazarus was one of those reclining with him at table. Mary therefore took a pound of expensive ointment made from pure nard, and anointed the feet of Jesus and wiped his feet with her hair. The house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume.

Reflection: What is one costly or inconvenient way you can show love to Jesus or others today, out of the overflow of your time with Him?

Day 5: Your worth is measured by Christ’s love, not by productivity
The world measures value by productivity, influence, or roles, but Jesus measures your worth by His love and sacrifice on the cross. Whether you are a business owner, a stay-at-home parent, or anything in between, your calling is to kneel at Jesus’ feet and then rise to serve others in His name. Your identity and value are secure in Him, freeing you from the pressure to prove yourself and empowering you to serve with joy and confidence. [01:14:15]

Romans 5:8 (ESV)
But God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.

Reflection: Where have you been seeking your worth in what you do or achieve? How can you rest today in the truth that your value is found in Christ’s love for you?

Quotes

I feel like I started something in my uh in my message last week. You know, I I kind of gave these two tropes that we've got of uh of womanhood on social media. And so, I wanted to kind of bring together two other sort of extremes that we see in in uh some of the expectations uh some of the busyiness of life. And and today we're continuing our message called Reclaiming Womanhood. Guys, before you run away, before you tune out, okay? Everything I am talking about here today, it applies to you, too. [00:47:02]

I think the reality is is even if you don't fall all the way to this side, all the way to that side, there's always a question in our heads of how much should I do? How hard should I push? What is enough? Now, I preach this message and somewhat I preach it to myself because I'm a little bit of a productivity nerd. [00:52:50]

The thing that I find so funny is uh for for a long time, you had these people that were sitting in there like, "All right, this is the perfect morning routine that will immediately make it so that you are successful." First step, get up at 3:00 a.m. Say what now? Okay, so what time am I going to bed? 11 a.m. No, P.M., right? It's like, how? [00:53:50]

But I know they're important. And so on the one hand, you've got those people that are maybe play with workcoholism a little bit, and then you got the other people that are like, "Work Is that what those other people do so that they can write me checks? I don't know. And don't get me wrong, I understand like we're in different places and it I think it's wonderful. [00:55:27]

There is a baseline expectation of work, right? The the Garden of Eden, uh, it wasn't this place where Adam and Eve sat back on their recliners and went, "Man, this garden is amazing." God actually told them to tend the garden, that they were in charge of it, and that they were supposed to expand the garden. There was work. God's perfect creation was like, "You need to work." [00:56:30]

What if it's not about how much you're doing, but more about who you're doing it for? Amen. Okay. What if it's not so much about how many hours that you're putting in to go and do everything and keeping everything up up and tidy and neat and perfect and all of that, but what if it's more so about using your capacity as a human being to put that effort into something that is designated for a particular person, for our God. [00:57:35]

Even though society pressures you to do it all, Jesus invites you to be with him first. And the doit all mentality so easily makes it so that you get up in the morning and you're like, I should do my devotions, but I got so much to do. I want to spend time with the Lord. I haven't been feeling like I'm in his presence lately. But you know what? The dishes need to be washed. [00:58:16]

The point of the message of this passage is not that you shouldn't entertain your uh your guests. It's not that you shouldn't cook dinner for those that come over to your house. It's not an anti-hospity message. It's a put first things first message. See Martha, she's this great host, right? She's the kind of person whose house you want to go to because you know it's going to be a five course meal and she's going to pull out the fancy china that people used to use, right? [01:00:10]

Mary, she's sitting at the feet of Jesus. And what I think is so interesting is that there's Martha being held down by social expectations while Mary, while seated at the feet of Jesus, is actually lifted up through her time with Jesus. Understand, Mary's not being lazy. She's not the princess in this situation, in this story. [01:01:18]

She simply recognized in this moment that service that pleases God begins at his feet. Service that pleases God begins at his feet. That is a weird statement these days, isn't it? At his feet. Maybe you're one of those people that's just like, if there's feet involved, I'm over here, you know? I don't know. But understand today at at his feet was actually a common Hebrew phrase for being uh a humble student for being taught or discipled by someone. [01:01:44]

It's not like sitting at the feet of Jesus means that that's the only dedicated thing that you do in your day. It means it's what gives you the ability to be effective in your day. Jesus teaches his disciples in the book of John in scripture. He says, "Yes, I am the vine. You are the branches. Those who remain in me and I in them will produce much fruit. Read this part with me. For apart from me you can do nothing." [01:04:50]

When you start with Jesus, whether you're changing di when you start with Jesus, your service, whether that service is changing diapers or preaching sermons, declares Christ is king. When you start with Jesus, I hear from a lot of people who who almost act like if if they stay home with the kids that they're less than. No, you have a ministry. [01:07:02]

That's the reason why Paul wrote to the church in Colassi, work willingly at whatever you do as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people. He says, remember that the Lord will give you an inheritance as your reward and that the master you're serving is not Joe Blow in the management seat who writes the check. It's Christ. He's the He's your boss. He's the one that you're working for. [01:08:02]

I think there's a reason why Jesus said that loving God with your whole self and loving your neighbor as yourself is the entire ethic of God. And it's because when you're filled with love for God and when you are uh filled up from the presence of God, you begin to desire to serve him with heartfilled love. And people begin to see the difference. [01:08:59]

When you're filled up with God's Holy Spirit, sacrificial service isn't a chore anymore. It's actually your heart's greatest desire. Right? Like understand this with me today. If when somebody says, "Hey, you're so talented at at this thing here. God's blessed you in this way, and I would love it if you could help." And something in your spirit says, "Yes, that's the right thing to do." [01:12:36]

The fact is that the world we live in measures worth in terms of productivity, influence, or roles. But Jesus Christ measures it by his cross. And though he came to earth fully God and fully man, he was completely innocent unlike any of us can be. And he served us to the point of an absolutely gruesome death. Why? In order to bring us spiritual life now and life into all of eternity. [01:14:15]

Chatbot

What does Jesus prioritize over busyness in service?

How does scripture redefine true womanhood and service?

In what way should believers balance work and spiritual intimacy?