Do Not Take the Easy Course

“‘Enter by the narrow gate. For the gate is wide and the way is easy that leads to destruction, and those who enter by it are many. For the gate is narrow and the way is hard that leads to life, and those who find it are few.” Matthew 7:13-14 ESV

In an article titled “10 of the Fastest and Flattest Marathons to Run in 2024” posted by Runner’s World last week, the writer said “So you want to run a marathon. Perhaps clocking 26.2 is your goal in and of itself—in that case, there’s no need to choose a hilly course! Also, if you’re a seasoned marathoner and want to go for speed and nab a PR this time around, then a fast and flat marathon is your best bet. If getting a Boston Marathon qualifying time is your aim, then opting for a hilly course might be unwise—a fast and flat course will certainly require less effort.” Indeed! It just makes sense right? If you want a faster time, you pick an easier course. 

And you know, while it certainly makes sense to pick a flat course when you’re trying to snag a PR or a BQ, taking the easier course in our spiritual lives can reap disastrous consequences. You see, Jesus was very clear when He told us that “the way is easy that leads to destruction.” Which is the very reason so many people will take it. And although, “the way is hard that leads to life, and those who find it are few,” those who make the effort to take hold of it will celebrate their decision for eternity. On the flip side, those who took the easy course or “wide” way will suffer the horrific repercussions of their actions for all time. 

So choose to “enter by the narrow gate” my friend. It will most definitely be hard but it will be worth it in the end when you hear the words “Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a little; I will set you over much. Enter into the joy of your master.“

Heavenly Father, thank You for clearly laying out the rules of the race in the Bible so that we can stay on course and know what the consequences are for going our own way. Lord, remind us that once we take our final breath, there will be no second chances to decide where we will spend eternity. We will either be celebrating or suffering, and the choice will have been ours. Help us then to share this Message with the world so that no one would perish and spend eternity in hell on account of our silence. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!