Lyrics
Verse 1
In the midst of my toil and service
When my spirit is carried away
Keep me, Lord, from the work of the loveless
Call my name when my heart goes astray
Chorus
One thing is needed
Only to sit at His feet Only to see Him
Jesus is all that I need
Verse 2
There's no payment or off'ring required
No provision my hand must supply
Jesus, only myself You desire
Empty-handed I come to abide
Verse 3
When my efforts are lost to the ages
And all mem'ry of me is erased
I will sing of my portion in Jesus
Never-fading throughout endless days
Bridge
One thing I ask of You, Lord
To dwell in Your presence forever
One thing I ask of You, Lord
To gaze on Your beauty forever
Video
Meaning & Inspiration
“One Thing Is Needed” contrasts busy religious service with attentive presence before Jesus. The first verse admits that work can become loveless and distracting, then asks the Lord to call a wandering heart back. The chorus distills the answer into sitting at Christ’s feet and receiving him as the essential portion.
That image closely echoes the account of Mary and Martha, where Jesus describes one thing as necessary. The later verses also reject the idea that access to him can be earned or supplied by personal effort. The bridge broadens the prayer through language from Psalm 27, asking to dwell in God’s presence and gaze upon his beauty. Together, the sections frame worship as dependent attention rather than achievement: service finds its proper order only when communion with Christ remains central, and lasting hope rests in him rather than in recognition or remembered accomplishments.
Related Scripture
- Luke 10:38-42 Jesus commends Mary’s choice to sit at his feet and calls one thing necessary.
- Psalm 27:4 The psalmist asks to dwell with the Lord and gaze upon his beauty.