In the midst of full calendars and constant demands, it's easy to let days, months, even years pass by in a blur of busyness and lose sight of the most important thing--the one thing. We allow our devotion to Jesus to be pushed down our list of priorities as we tend to all those seemingly urgent have-to's and should-do's. And we miss our chance to experience Jesus, all the while assuming we have no choice in the matter.
But the truth is, we do have a choice. A choice to slow ourselves down, silence the noise, and lean in to listen. Thoughtful, vulnerable, and encouraging, this 21-day devotional invites you to pause, breathe, and encounter Jesus in the chaos. Through the story of Mary and Martha, you'll discover how to intentionally welcome Jesus in, listen at his feet, and respond to his words. To choose the one thing that will not be taken away from you. With heartfelt insights and practical applications, this book gently leads you into a sacred rhythm of life rooted in the presence of Christ right where your everyday moments unfold.
Andi Andrew is a frequent speaker at our church. I found that her latest sermons where par excellence, very understandable and applicable. She portrays a beautiful spirit while on stage. I heard her talk about this book on the podcast produced by Seacoast Church. My wife had already read the book and said I would enjoy it. It can be read in one sitting or on a daily basis as you see fit to dive into the reflection questions and scriptures that she gives the reader after each chapter. The story of Martha and Mary in the gospel of Luke is such an important one to understand and connect to. She does a nice job summarizing her main points in the final chapter (Day 21). One quote that struck me was in Day 8 from C.S. Lewis: "For the Present is the point at which time touches eternity." Such wise counsel from Lewis and our author as each day emphasizes one aspect of this story in the Bible. Another quote in Day 13: "One thing I've learned in marriage and parenting is this: Marriage shows you how selfish you are, and children show you how angry you are." So true! I would recommend to anyone to get this book and take your time reading through each chapter using a journal to document what God is saying to you in those moments of quiet if you can muster up the time to accomplish that. It may take reordering your life and priorities, but it would be a great benefit if you do.
One Thing: 21 Devotions to Clear the Noise and Draw Near to Jesus by Andi Andrew is a refreshing, deeply practical guide for anyone feeling overwhelmed by the constant distractions of daily life. Andrew’s writing is authentic and encouraging, offering 21 short yet impactful daily reflections that help recenter your heart and mind on what truly matters.
What Stands Out:
Bite-Sized & Actionable: Each entry is designed to fit easily into a busy morning routine, making it manageable to stay consistent over the 21 days.
Grounded Insights: The devotionals strike a great balance between scripture, personal stories, and practical reflection prompts that help quiet mental clutter.
Warm, Relatable Tone: It feels less like a strict textbook and more like a wise friend guiding you through a spiritual reset.
Whether you're starting a new habit of daily devotion or looking to simplify your spiritual walk, this book serves as a gentle, focused reminder to step away from the noise and draw closer to faith. Highly recommended, especially if you've faith in Christianity.
I am so thankful that Andi wrote this beautiful devotional. It is a reminder that Martha was NOT a villain, in fact she was doing exactly what culturally was expected of a woman who was hosting a rabbi; however, Jesus longed for her to sit at His feet as her sister, Mary did and He is wooing us in the same way.