The Narrow Road

The narrow road image contained in Matthew 7 is frequently found in cultural references. Two of my favorites are Rascal Flatts’ song, “Bless the Broken Road,” and the Robert Frost poem, “The Road Not Taken.” In each case, the writers capitalize on Jesus’ metaphor of the choices people face and how, so often, they choose the easier path.

Why do individuals choose the broad way when the reward is so much greater along the more difficult one? Or, as Frost says, “I took the one less traveled by, And that has made all the difference.” Is it because we are naturally drawn to find the “path of least resistance?” That’s what a recent study published in Psychology Today suggested. To quote a March 11, 2017 article, “Of course, this isn’t unique to humans. Everything takes the path of least resistance: water, electricity, and Google maps.”

But Jesus urges us to reconsider our daily and life choices. He says the outcome of our choice to follow Him, as difficult as it may seem at times, is eternally worth it. And we know that deep down because the same principle is true in other areas. We know that following Jesus is often compared to daily choices to eat healthily or exercise. But the consequences are far greater than simply feeling better.

What about you? Is following Jesus hard these days? Are there times when reading His Word or talking with Him in prayer seems pointless? Don’t give up — persevere. You will experience joy, inexpressible joy, someday!

Oh God, I want to know You so desperately but You seem distant. Help me to stick with my walk with You even during the hard times. Amen.

Go Deeper — Take notice of the areas of your life where you are choosing the easy path and resolve to make wise choices.

Read Further — Check out some of these short articles about The Road to Trusting God.