The broad way that leads to destruction (Matthew 7:13)

Therefore let us also, seeing we are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, lay aside every weight and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and run with patience the race that is set before us--Hebrews 12:1

 

There is an ongoing struggle waging within each of us between good and evil (Rom. 7:18-24). The world around us is constantly tugging at our heartstrings beckoning us with its glitter and false promises to enter that broad way that leads to destruction (Matthew 7:13). We would do well to begin each day enlisting the aid of God to help us rid ourselves of all things that would interfere with our loyalty and commitment to him. Pray that he will grant to us a measure of strength and courage that will enable us to withstand the pull of the world. Our God is not cold or indifferent to our afflictions. He is tenderly touched by what is happening to us (Hebrews 2:16-18; Hebrews 4:13-16). If we are willing to submit ourselves to him, trusting him to watch over us and keep us safe, he will hear our cry and he will answer that cry (James 4:7; Psalms 62:7-8; 1 Peter 3:12; Philippians 4:6-7).

 

The path we walk will not always be smooth and easy. There will be a lot of rough places over which we must travel and there will be mountains we will have to conquer. As we journey down the pathway of life, afflictions may increase, burdens may become harsher, pain and sorrow may often be our companion. But if we stand fast in the faith, if we do not lose our confidence in God, if our trust in him fills our hearts, we will one day gain the greatest victory imaginable ( Hebrews 10:23; 2 Timothy 1:12; Proverbs 3:5; Hebrews 2:13; 1 Corinthians 15:55-57). With each passing day we are but a step closer to the moment in which we will take that final earthly step and leave behind all that we have, taking with us only what we are. What a journey this will be. Live each day as if you know it is your last one on planet earth. Live every moment of your life in a manner that you can say, "I am ready" (2 Timothy 4:6-8). 

 

Charles Hicks