Freely Speaking - Devotional by Liz’a Biswell

Welcome to Freely Speaking, an OHSOFREE devotional ministry where we share our hearts and trust God for transformation.

Today’s devotional is written by Liz’a Biswell, and narrated by Angela Gray.

“But the Lord said to her, ‘My dear Martha, you are worried and upset over all these details! There is only one thing worth being concerned about. Mary has discovered it, and it will not be taken away from her’” (Luke 10:41-42 NLT).

I’m a pretty serious person. I love a plan, a list, and clear instructions. Even my “fun” tends to be organized. When I’m given a responsibility, I work as though I’m working for the Lord Himself, just as Colossians 3:23 teaches. But if I’m honest, this often stresses me out more than it blesses anyone. It leaves very little room for flexibility — or for God to interrupt my plans with His.

As I age in wisdom, I’m learning to slow down, to breathe, and to invite Jesus into every moment. Luke 10 inspires me to live this way. Martha was working hard, doing what looked right, while Mary sat with Jesus. When Martha complained, Jesus gently told her that Mary had chosen the one thing that truly mattered. I understand Martha’s frustration; the work does need to be done. But I’m learning to become more like Mary, choosing Jesus first even when everything around me feels urgent.

In moments of stress, panic, or frustration, I’ve learned to stop, sit down, and spend time with Jesus. When I pause long enough to remember who He is, the urgency loses its grip. The task stops shouting. My heart settles. And suddenly, I’m reminded that Jesus never asked me to carry everything perfectly; He asked me to come to Him.

When I choose His presence over my pressure, I feel the relief Mary must have felt at His feet. The work will still be there, but the weight of it won’t be on my shoulders anymore. Jesus calls this the one necessary thing; the one thing that brings peace instead of panic, rest instead of rushing, and joy instead of striving. And when we choose it, He promises it will never be taken away.

Thank you for joining us today. To learn more about OhSoFree Ministries & Gracelight Collective, please visit us at www.gracelightcollective.org.