The Narrow Path

Sometimes I grow weary of walking the "straight and narrow."  I am sure many of you do, too.  I find it frustrating that Christians and non-Christians alike really don't want to follow the full Word of God.  They aren't interested in modesty, sound doctrine, strong family values, or anything that the Word of God teaches.  Many Christians are content to just know the blessings of Salvation, but not truly understand what it means to walk with God.

As sad as it is to me that so few want to truly follow Him, the Scriptures show us that this is actually to be expected.  Matthew 7:13-14 states, "Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it.  Because narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it."

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 Being a Christian is not "easy."  Especially if you are a
Christian who tries for more than the easy route to salvation and truly tries to live the faith.  In the United States we are not persecuted for our faith -- but in much of the world, people still die for their faith.  Even in the United States, however, people find it "hard" to be a Christian because of the "restrictions" and ridicule which they sometimes endure.  When we are ridiculed, however, we should count it joy that we are seen worthy to suffer for His sake.

James 1:2-3 says, "My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience.  But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing."

While the feeling of being "alone" is not a happy one, Christ is our all and should be seen as such.  We should take joy in the fact that we can serve Him so fully!  While the path may be narrow and hard, the ending is beautiful....eternal life with Him.  May we all be encouraged and remember that as we go about our lives!

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