One Thing's Needful

Verse 1

One thing’s needful; Lord, this treasure teach me highly to regard. All else, though it first give pleasure, is a yoke that presses hard. Beneath it the heart is still fretting and striving, no true, lasting happiness ever deriving. This one thing is needful; all others are vain— I count all but loss that I Christ may obtain.

Verse 2

How were Mary’s thoughts devoted her eternal joy to find as intent each word she noted at her Savior’s feet reclined! How kindled her heart, how devout was its feeling while hearing the lessons that Christ was revealing! All earthly concerns she forgot for her Lord and found her contentment in hearing his Word.

Verse 3

Wisdom’s highest, noblest treasure, Jesus, is revealed in you. Let me find in you my pleasure; make my will and actions true, humility there and simplicity reigning, in paths of true wisdom my steps ever training. If I learn from Jesus this knowledge divine, the blessing of heavenly wisdom is mine.