The narrow and hard way!
Scripture reading for January 9: Matthew 7
“”So whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets. 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 7:12-14
Our culture is very diverse and values many different choices. In America, everyone is free to choose their religion, their preferences and now even their sexual identity. People have elected representatives and leaders who have discarded ancient laws and God’s Law to legislate the choices that have been warned against by Scripture. It is evident in our elections and culture that many people are on the broad path that Jesus warned would lead to destruction. This broad path allows all to choose whatever seems right to them from their self-centered perspective (world-view). Each person does what is right in their eyes.
Jesus taught that God’s Word in the Law and Prophets outlined how we should treat others. If others mistreated us, we should do to them as we would want them to do to us as outlined by God in His Law. We should love what He loves and hate what God hates. This is the ‘narrow gate’ described by Jesus. It is a hard way because most of the world refuses to humble themselves and submit to God’s Laws and live under His love. It is this ‘hard’ way alone that leads to life eternal. The broad path is to do whatever feels good to you. This path has many followers and they are all headed towards eternal destruction.
What gate have you chosen to enter and how would you describe your current path in life? Are you living for immediate gratification or does eternity cause you to humbly ask for mercy? How have God’s Laws and prophetic warnings helped to shape your world view?
Prayer: Father, I am humbled by Your call to treat others in accordance with Your Word. Forgive me for neglecting to learn Your Word and receive instruction from it. Deliver me from the ‘broad’ path of this world, and reveal Your narrow path leading to life. Use me to help those heading for destruction. Amen.
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