Something Better To Do

The preacher where I attended once encourage folks to participate in the Wednesday evening Bible studies, but he ended his invitation with the words, "…unless you have something better to do." His tone did not seem sarcastic, but genuine. And yet, I don't believe that he thought there were better things to do.

When visiting another congregation we noticed quite a lot of distracting activity in the lobby on a Wednesday evening during Bible class. We were also distracted by a hedge trimmer outside the building. Someone later explained that these people were all busy in various 'ministries.' Their timing seemed odd. Perhaps they had nothing better to do.

Fill in the blank:
For me, it is better to ________ than it is to spend time with other Christians in the study God’s word and in fellowship. 

Now, let's not play games and come up with a clever justification like “stay at home when sick,” or “tend to my dying mother,” etc. Rather, place in the blank the reason for the last time that you chose not to attend Bible study.

Truly, my purpose is not to generate false guilt. Rather, it is to encourage you to evaluate your attitude toward Bible study in the scheduled assembly. If you do feel guilty, it should be for the right reason.

No one gets a gold star, bonus points, or a jewel in a heavenly crown for regular attendance. A person with perfect attendance could still have a poor attitude toward Bible study. So, evaluate yourself. What is important to you? (Your past accurately answers.)

I am astounded at the number of times that I ask, "How are you doing today?" and the immediate reply is, "I'm tired." How many of you decide that your are too tired to attend Bible study? I cannot judge your situation, but I wonder why so many people are so tired… all…the…time. I guess there are lots of things that are better to do.

This is not meant to sound like parental nagging, but rather, a kick in the seat of the pants kind of encouragement. Yes, there are legitimate reasons for people to miss, and, yes, Jesus is not our featured teacher. But, if you can participate in our regularly scheduled Bible studies but choose not to, I can only say, "Martha, Martha."

Now as they were traveling along, He entered a village; and a woman named Martha welcomed Him into her home. She had a sister called Mary, who was seated at the Lord’s feet, listening to His word. But Martha was distracted with all her preparations; and she came up to Him and said, “Lord, do You not care that my sister has left me to do all the serving alone? Then tell her to help me.” But the Lord answered and said to her, “Martha, Martha, you are worried and bothered about so many things; but only one thing is necessary, for Mary has chosen the good part, which shall not be taken away from her.” 

—Luke 10:38–40 (NASB95)

You don’t need to explain your situation to me. Yet, if you life is full of distractions, you might want to bring it to God's attention and ask for help. There is value in choosing the good part, unless, perhaps, you have something better to do.

Mark Stinnett

August 27, 2023