The narrow gate

Matthew 7:13–14

 

13 g“Enter by the narrow gate. For the gate is wide and the way is easy1 that leads to destruction, and those who enter by it are many. 14 For the gate is narrow and hthe way is hard that leads to life, and ithose who find it are few.

 

Saturday, as I was navigating the narrow and rocky trail during my run, I began wondering about the road to heaven.  This trail was narrow and it was hard.  It took perseverance and God's strength and guidance to complete it.  But just how narrow is the gate and how hard is the way that leads to eternal life?

 

We need to first understand that Jesus is the door we must enter into Heaven and so we must follow Him.  There is no other way because He alone is the "the way, the truth and the life." John 14:6.    There is one requirement to enter the narrow road - faith in Jesus.   Staying focused and on the right road is the hard part.  We must go around sin's potholes and temptations telling us to "exit now."  Those of us seeking to "run the good race" and enter through the narrow gate must do so through struggle and strain, like an athlete straining for the finish line, all muscles hurting and completely drained of all strength and energy and recognizing that salvation comes from God, and only God. 

 

  On the other hand, there are no requirements to enter the broad road and the way is easy.  Satan paved it with worldly attractions and compromise for those unwilling to take up their cross and follow Jesus.  Unfortunately, this will be the road most traveled.  There are no rules and no requirements to enter in.  When a person refuses to deny themselves and follow Jesus, the flesh will follow comfort and pleasure.

 

Living for Christ may not be popular but it is true and it is right.  Believing in Jesus is the only way. 

 

Heavenly Father, Thank you for providing a way to heaven.  While I know the road will not be easy help me to stay focused and remember that you are walking it with me.  Amen.