Continue On the Narrow Road to Life

Well, we’re a little more than half way through March already! And for about a week and a half, March ushered in some unusually warm weather here in Virginia, with temperatures ranging from 75-88. Although this premature spring weather did not last, it was a lovely reprieve, an unexpected but welcome blessing. But of course, I realize everyone does not feel the same because after returning from a sunny warm lunchtime walk, I expressed my excitement about the warm weather to a colleague in the hallway. My enthusiasm was quickly met with her disappointment. She said it was way too early for the cooler weather to be gone. Then, I remembered she spent many years in the midwest and favored cold weather. Even though I too spent many years in the midwest (Michigan), I still prefer warmer weather.

However, I knew she was right about it being too early to be so warm. But that didn’t stop me from taking advantage of the unseasonably warm weather, to visit a nearby park, sit on a bench, drink a smoothie, watch the water, and enjoy the delightful sounds of children on the playground. It was refreshing. At some point during my visit to the park, my colleague crossed my mind. As I remembered our conversation, I chuckled.

It’s true, God made us all different and our preferences with the weather is just one small example of that. But another difference, one that has a much greater impact, is faith. Faith can vary from person to person. Even within the same faith, Christianity for example, we can find an array of different beliefs and perspectives. I think most of us could agree, that while some differences related to faith can be a good thing, because it encourages us to learn, grow, and love each other through the differences, there are times it causes much disunity and stress.

Walking by faith does not always produce quick answers, which is contrary to the society we live in that usually promotes an I want it now, rather than later culture. Developing faith takes time. Getting to know God takes time, a lifetime. But God does not change, we do. So that is why God’s Word is a priceless treasure. For in it, we can see His steadfast love and unchanging character. It teaches us how to navigate our ever changing world. Through its real life stories, we learn about God’s character, His faithfulness to love, heal, deliver, vindicate, discipline, and provide. And of course, through the Bible, we learn how to be like Jesus and walk in His way.

So why are we prone to wander from the truth, hope, and beauty of God’s word? I am sure that answer, like most things, can vary from person to person too, but perhaps in many cases, it is the allure of something better. A perceived better path or a quicker way to have our desires and needs met. Matthew 7:14 NLT, warns us that following Christ will not be easy, it says, “But the gateway to life is very narrow and the road is difficult, and only a few ever find it.” So, not only is the road difficult, but it is only traveled by a few. And for those of us who have chosen the narrow difficult road, we know very well, it requires us to abide in Jesus continuously. Day by day, He is our daily bread. He is the One who directs our path and fills our hearts with joy as we travel the narrow road.  

As I reflect on my journey, one thing I have found to be unwavering is the love of God. It has taken me many years to become more confident in His love for me and I am still learning what confidence in God is. But, when I allow myself to rest safely in His perfect love, I have all I need. There is no lack, whatsoever. The peace and contentment found in His love is not even dependent on circumstances or people. It just comes from having faith that God will be exactly who He promised to be in any and every situation.

As Christians, we have to choose Jesus and embrace His joy, which means we choose to let life’s difficulties (which includes circumstances and people) point us back to Him. After all, our lives should be about His glory and helping to expand His kingdom. And when He becomes the focus, the very center, life somehow seems more manageable, simpler and sweeter, even in the midst of the complexities and chaos. It is hard to explain, but in my experience, that is just the way it is.

His love is a place of refuge, like nothing I have ever experienced before. I pray that you too would be kept safely in His love and care and run to Him for refuge.

Psalm 46:1 NLT

God is our refuge and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble.

Psalm 62:8 NKJV

Trust in Him at all times, you people; Pour out your heart before Him; God is a refuge for us. Selah

Hebrews 10:38 NLT

And my righteous ones will live by faith. But I will take no pleasure in anyone who turns away.”