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Martha is distracted by busyness. Busyness robs from our spiritual life.

Mary is sitting at the feet of Jesus listening to Him. Sitting and listening to Jesus is always a priority in our spiritual lives. Jesus says make time to sit and listen.

STEPS TO INTERPRETING THE PASSAGE
To help you interpret the passage, answer like the ones listed below. Use as many or as few as you need to.

• What are the meanings of the words?
• What does the immediate context suggest? (preceding and succeeding verses)
• What does the broader context suggest? (chapter and book)
• What do other cross references suggest?
• What is the cultural meaning? (What did it mean to those to whom it was originally addressed?)
• What do commentaries suggest?

APPLY IT TO YOUR LIFE
This is where you purpose to do what God has taught you through bible study. (James1:21-25, Mt. 7:24-27) It is through applying the Word that God changes our lives.

Application does not happen by osmosis, but by intent. God enlightens us from the Word, we enact the application with our wills, and the Holy Spirit empowers us to carry out these choices. It is usually best to concentrate on applying one principle at a time. The goal of all application is to glorify God by becoming more like Jesus.

2 Timothy 3:16—"All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for:

TEACHING: What did I learn?
REPROOF: Where do I fall short? Why do I fall short?
CORRECTION: What will I do about it?
TRAINING IN RIGHTEOUSNESS: How can I make this principle a consistent part of my life?

This article is reprinted from the website www.Pastors.com. Copyright 2003 by Todd Wendorff. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

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