THE WAY TO LIFE!

 

The Way to Life

It’s true what they say about the road of life being a bit bumpy and sometimes downright difficult. Our journeys are littered with a variety of challenges and temptations. Although our intentions are to stay on the straight and narrow path, we can be quite sure we will encounter disturbances, conflicts, and uncertainties along the way.

Unexpected Storms

I liken the disturbances to a bike ride. I’m riding my bike down the local bike trail. The lake is reflecting the sunshine, and the sky is bright blue. I’m surrounded by beauty. Next thing I know, the sky is gray, and the rain begins to rapidly come down while the wind blows wet drops directly into my face. So much for visibility. My first instinct is to find shelter until the rain stops and the storm passes – knowing the storm will pass.

Much like the rain, circumstances unexpectedly appear similar to a storm, and we may find ourselves in a bit of chaos if we’re not prepared. Click To Tweet

Take a moment to think about the past week. Did you experience any disturbances or distractions? If so, how did you handle the interruptions? Were you prepared, or did you allow your circumstances to derail you?

Short Cuts

My disturbances can be as simple as spending too much time reading the news or scrolling through social media. The abundance of messages surrounding me can undoubtedly lead to information overload. If I’m not disciplined, I can find myself allowing my thoughts to take a different direction. Whether the messages are from television, radio, social media or print media, the words flood my thoughts and, good or bad, the downloaded messages impact my course.

Think about the messages you see and read daily. Posts about people who seem to have everything they could ask for by simply trying a new program, wearing a specific label or manifesting their dreams. Or the advertising that promises bliss and freedom if you’ll commit to their program or brand.  It seems simple enough but is it really that simple? Are these easy paths really shortcuts to paradise or are they mere distractions? Matthew 7:14 warns us about the so-called easy formulas and shortcuts,

Being and Doing

“Don’t look for shortcuts to God. The market is flooded with surefire, easygoing formulas for a successful life that can be practiced in your spare time. Don’t fall for that stuff, even though crowds of people do. The way to life—to God!—is vigorous and requires total attention.” Matthew 7:14 The Message

The Narrow Gate

Get the message? There are no shortcuts so let’s not fall or be tempted by the false words and promises of false Gods. Let’s not lose our focus and mistake the wide gate for the narrow gate. The wide gate will permit easy passage because it’s attractive and appeals to our needs. But, the narrow gate although not so easy to pass through or as attractive [passage requires obedience and discipline] is the way to life.

Which will you choose?

I believe the narrow gate is not as obvious because it is much simpler than the wide gate. The narrow gate does not need a sales pitch, a filtered photo or a gazillion likes. It’s an unpretentious gate, humble in stature. If I’m not spending time in prayer and reflection, deepening my relationship with God and studying His word, I may pass right by the opening. If I allow life’s distractions to hinder my walk with Christ, I will not be prepared for the journey. The only gate that leads to life is the narrow gate. Which will you choose?

 

Image Credit Parinaz Wadia Design