Don't let a good work keep you from the best

Lyrics

About this song

It's a good thing to be active in the service of the Lord
But don't be surprised if it wears you out
You've gotta take it in before you give it out
The life of faith depends on God, without a doubt
Play the tune, not just a chord.

(Chorus)
Don't let a good work keep you from the best
The land of promise is a place of rest
Don't let your life be ruled by duty
Be led by love
The righteousness that really counts
Comes from above
However well you do, only grace will get you through
Don't let a good work keep you from the best

Prophecies and preaching and miracles and faith
May seem the perfect gifts from God, but don't be fooled
Don't just keep up appearances when love has cooled
It's the greatest gift of God and comes before them all
Let your life be filled with love.

(Chorus)
Don't let a good work (etc)

We can find refreshment in the presence of the Lord
Where those who wait and contemplate are really blessed
And through his grace he leads us into righteousness
And after that we're ready to give of our best
That's the perfect way of love.

(Chorus)
Don't let a good work (etc)

For the scriptural background to this song look at Luke 10:38-41 - 1 Corinthians 13 - Hebrews 4:1-13. Set within the Mary and Martha story, this song is bouncy and lighthearted, but carries a deep message. It is the moral that centuries of teaching have drawn from this familiar story... Martha's way of active service is good, but Mary's chooses "the better part" by making time just to be in God's presence. Our Christian work will be more fruitful if it is born out of a life of prayer. Ultimately, our fulfilment is in contemplating the Lord and allowing him to make us more like himself (2 Corinthians 3:18).