15/10/2024
https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1AyLg4PenF/?mibextid=WC7FNe
“…Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat:
Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.” Matthew 7:13-14
If you have the red letter edition of the Bible, you will find these words written in red, which means they were spoken by Jesus himself. I wonder how many today would embrace this if Jesus were here teaching it.
Walking the “strait” path has never been a popular thing, even in Jesus’ day. It doesn’t come naturally. The broad way is much more suited to our human nature. The narrow way has to be sought after and requires a constant obedience to God’s laws and daily resistance to anything that would violate those principles. The Bible reminds us that it is not the throngs that will be going this way. In fact, it will be very few.
On the other hand, the broad way boasts of many followers. Sadly, most people will choose to take this way. It’s the way of least resistance, it’s alluring and it is the way to blend and fit in. It’s easy and requires little effort, and it’s the way that will probably make you the most popular with your peers, but it’s ultimately the way of destruction. Not only meaning eternal destruction, but violating God’s spiritual principles can result in ruin in this life. Addictions, hurt, depression, turmoil and pain, both emotional and physical are often the result of the broad way.
It shouldn’t be a surprise that God would have a better plan for those who claim to know Him.
Jesus spoke of this clearly when He said, “If ye continue in my word,
then are ye my disciples indeed;” and again when He said “ My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me.”
There is much said about a new life, new desires, a clean heart, and a renewed mind.
Clearly, being a follower of Christ is not for the faint of heart. It is a fight to the finish, but we are not alone. We are promised grace to meet every need. Strength for the journey, and a final reward for our labors.
Are you on this narrow way? Or have you relaxed what used to be your convictions to make yourself a little more “palliative” to those around you?
I encourage all of us this week to spend some extra time in prayer and Bible reading, seeking God’s divine guidance and wisdom for all of our lives. There’s too much at stake for anything else.
