Have a real Bible out and listen together with a group of godly women (no matter the age). For group leader - DISCUSSION QUESTIONS // LUKE 10:38-42: Why is Martha upset and frustrated? In what ways did Mary and Martha try to honor their friend and teacher? // JOHN 11:1-44: What do you learn about Martha’s beliefs concerning the future (verse 24) in her conversation with Jesus? How would you respond if Jesus asked you the question in verse 26? Martha and Mary had the same expectations and raised the same question when Jesus arrived (verses 21, 32). How did were His responses to them different? Why? // JOHN 12:1-8: During Jesus’ visit to the home of Simon the leper, how were Mary, Martha, and Lazarus expressing their friendship to Him? Why would Jesus’ words in verses 7-8 be of special significance to this family? // Do you identify with Mary or Martha more? Who do you want to become more like and why? // INDIVIDUAL CHALLENGES: What is your “precious ointment” which you can sacrifice to the Lord? Refocus your priorities on your relationships with people. No distractions, be present. Our most important relationship is with God. Spend quiet time, listening for the message He has for you. // PARTNER CHALLENGE: Spend intentional quality time with each other. // PARTNER QUESTIONS: What are the strengths of being a “Martha” in life and ministry? What are the weaknesses? What are the common results that you experience when you lose your focus on God? Who, or what, do you blame when your life becomes chaotic? What do you do in your times of prayer and Bible study to focus your mind on the Lord? Jesus Himself is our “portion.” Apart from Christ, what things do you treat as your “portion?” In other words, where are you tempted to look for life apart from Christ?