Matthew 7:13-14, “Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it. Because narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it.”
We are living in a culture that wants the quick and easy route, the path that avoids pressure, the shortcut to convenience. This stems from a mindset that wants to reap what you have not sown, to enjoy the highs but not the lows – the ideology that the easiest path is the best path. But, people of God, the route that is quick is often the route that you quit, because you are not equipped.
Take time today to reflect on this question: When you are taking decisions about your life, is the first thing that comes to mind, ‘Is this easy? Is this quick? Is this comfortable? Is this convenient? Is this smooth?’ If so, check yourself. The question should be: ‘Is this right in the sight of God – even if the right path is paved with sacrifice, even if the right path is difficult?’
It takes revelation from above to realise that pain which draws you closer to God, is more valuable than comfort that keeps you away from Him. This is why we must submit to His processing. God’s process is to mould you into who He wants you to be, not necessarily what you want to be. Comfort often comes at the cost of character but character is forged in the furnace of affliction – just as for gold to be gold it must go through the fire.
Prayer: Lord Jesus Christ, help me to make decisions in the light of Your Word. Help me to remain faithful on the path set before me and trust You as I navigate it with You. In Jesus’ name, amen.