The Narrow Path to Life: Matthew 7:13-14
Take a look at Matthew 7:13-14, where Jesus speaks about the narrow path to life and how we should avoid the wide gate. Let us look at the verse a little more deeply.
The Broad and Easy Path
In Matthew 7:13, Jesus begins by stating, “Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it.” In this verse, Jesus shows us clearly that there are 2 paths that we can take with our lives. The narrow and less chosen path leads to life, while the popular path many take is less to death and destruction.
The broad path that is taken by most is the path that looks most attractive to us. It is usually lined with all the illuminated by all the things that we just after in life. These could be money, sex, etc. The devil makes sure that it appears to be the best path for us to travel on, I mean you can’t be wrong, all your friends are already on the path. Lighten up, it will be fine. Don’t listen to the devil.
Listen rather to Jesus and His advice on following this broad path. He warns that it ultimately leads to destruction. While it may appear attractive at first, ultimately it will result in emptiness, suffering, and separation from God.
The Narrow Path to Life
In Matthew 7:14 Jesus presents us with the better option which is the narrow path. He says, “But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it.” This is the path that God has chosen for us to walk upon. It is not lined with the shortlived pleasures that the devil provides on the wide path, but rather it provides the deep everlasting satisfaction and relationship that can only be found through Jesus Christ, our Lord and Saviour.
Choosing this narrow path will probably mean that we need to make some difficult decisions and sacrifices. It requires us to deny ourselves, bear our cross, and follow Jesus with all our heart. This may not be the most most pleasant path but it will be the most rewarding path.
Jesus teaches that only a few will find the narrow path. This is because it demands a real commitment to seek God, adhere to His teachings, and lead a life that is pleasing to Him. It is not an easy journey and you will be heavily tempted to stray along the way.
Choosing the Narrow Path
So, how do we choose the narrow path? We need to first accept Jesus as our Lord and saviour. By inviting Jesus into our lives we will receive the Holy Spirit that lives within of us. The Holy spirit is our guide who will gently lead us onto the correct path if we obey his voice.
We need to take time to spend reading and studying the bible. The bible is our roadmap to life, it is our in instruction manual that we should follow carefully.
Spend time and surround yourself with other believers. It is through fellowship with others that we are able to grow and strengthen our belief.
Spending time in prayer is crucial to our walk on the narrow path. By prayer, we need to spend time where we are talking to and listening to God who talks to us through His Holy Spirit. It takes time but you will eventually learn how to discern His voice in your lfe.
The Reward of the Narrow Path
In choosing the narrow path, it may seem that you are losing out on all the pleasures that life have to offer. Don’t fall for that trick of the devil. These pleasures are very short-lived but the consequences remain forever. The rewards that await those who choose the narrow path are eternal.
You will also soon find that you are filled with a deep sense of peace and satisfaction that comes through knowing that Jesus is your Lord and Saviour..
Conclusion
Matthew 7:13-14 serves is a reminder that we should carefully choose the path that we are walking on. Pray often and listen to the voice of the Holy Spirit as He leads and guides you onto the correct path for your life.