Choosing the Narrow Path

Matthew 7:13-14 ESV

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.

Last week, I had the privilege of leading a brief devotion during our monthly staff meeting. I shared Matthew 7:13-14, a passage that has held a special place in my heart since high school and has been resonating with me in recent weeks.

For the longest time, I viewed this verse through the lens of the narrow gate symbolizing Christ and the broad gate representing an alternative path – one that may seem enjoyable, thrilling, and satisfying but ultimately leads to death and destruction. However, a realization struck me at some point that, while there may be truth to that interpretation, this passage actually outlines the choices believers face each day: 1) The narrow path – a spiritual gateway leading to an abundant life where Jesus is glorified, and 2) the broad path – a carnal gateway where God is dishonored, and the eternal reward is squandered.

Embracing the narrow path daily requires discipline, akin to what Jesus describes when he urges us to take up our cross and follow him. It entails choosing to die to self each day.

Even when faced with challenges, let us be a community that opts for the narrow gate daily, renouncing self-indulgence, selfishness, and self-righteousness. God remains faithful to his promises, offering us a victorious life of abundance both on this earth and in the new heavens.