Matthew 7:13-14

Matthew 7:13-14 (ESV): “13 “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. 14 For the gate is narrow and the way is hard that leads to life, and those who find it are few.”

The road less traveled is never the easy road. The masses often look for the path of least resistance. When it comes to salvation, that path will lead you to hell. The narrow gate leads to a hard path, but on it you will find life.

Jesus speaks to His disciples about the danger of following the crowd. It is never a good idea to simply go with the flow, because most people are heading in the wrong direction. Jesus makes that clear here: the gate is wide and the way is easy that leads to destruction. That is why so many are on it—it requires no change. But the gate that leads to life is narrow and the path is hard, which is why only a few find it.

What path are you on? Have you entered the wide gate, where there is little resistance in how you live your life? The path that Christ has paved for us requires death to self to enter, and a continual denial of self for the rest of your life. That is why it is so difficult. Thankfully, God has given us His Spirit to enable us to walk that path faithfully.

Consider what path you are on today, and adjust your course by repenting and turning to Jesus if you find yourself on the wide path. The narrow gate is the only way to heaven.

Father, we thank You for providing a way to life through Your Son. Help us to discern the path we are walking and to respond accordingly. We pray this in Jesus’ name, amen.