Do your friends or siblings matter more than your time with God? Be careful not to indulge in earthly relationships at the cost of your time with God. We are dust and cannot take the pressures of wicked spirits attacking us daily and think that our time with God can be compromised.

Some tasks may appear crucial when you should be attending church. Do not let your love for the dear one and good company pull you away from being at Jesus' feet.

When Jesus visited Martha and Mary's house, Martha was restless and stressed about feeding Jesus and the visitors. She got annoyed that her sister Mary, instead of helping, was sitting at the feet of Jesus. She went to Jesus and complained about Mary to get her away from Him and join her in serving.

Luke 10:40 - "... Lord, dost thou not care that my sister hath left me to serve alone? Bid her therefore that she help me."

Martha was so annoyed that she attacked Jesus in the process by saying, 'Do you not care?'. Jesus corrected her and appreciated Mary's decision to be at his feet. When we give earthly work more weight than the presence of God, we will go against God.

Both loved each other, but Mary knew her priorities. She did not allow her relationship with Martha to come in the way of her relationship with God. Be like Mary. Do not be like Martha, who pulls people away from God’s presence. 

Are you a spiritual blessing to your dear ones? Or do you skip church to do your own will?

• If you have a believing partner, it's a gift! Many feel lonely and lost without friends or siblings. Do not waste the relationship in worldliness. Invest in godliness. 

• It's a place of power when two or more gather in His name. Do not skip the only presence of power that can drive your blues away.

Neglecting the presence of God is harmful. Without God’s direction for this life and the fullness of His joy, we cannot get ready for His coming.

Be at the feet of Jesus. Maranatha, Praise God, and Amen.