In Matthew 7:13-14, Jesus tells us about the narrow gate, which is the pathway to Heaven. Additionally, He tells us about the wide gate, which is the pathway to hell. It is often much easier for people to follow the wide path, as it may be appealing to our sinful nature. The narrow gate requires intentionality and may seem like the unpopular choice, but comes with eternal benefits.

Jesus never said that the road to Heaven would be easy! On the contrary, we have to make the choice to turn away from our sinful ways and pick up our cross daily to follow Him. God knows that we are not perfect, but that does not mean that we should not try our best to live a godly life. Proverbs 21:2 says, “People may be right in their own eyes, but the Lord examines their heart.”  Living a godly life does not just mean to make our actions better, but to allow God to transform our heart as well. God sees our hearts and our motives. We need to do our best to honor Him with every part of ourselves. Although it may be hard to turn away from what our flesh wants, it is possible if we do it with God. We will face hardships in our lives as followers of Christ, but it will all be worth it in the end if we choose to go through the narrow gate.

Suggested prayer: Dear Lord, thank you for providing me with a way to turn away from sin and follow you. Even though there is a wide gate that leads to death that many will choose, I thank you for giving me the opportunity to go through the narrow gate which leads to life in You. Please help me and give me the strength to stand against the works and tactics of Satan that try to get in the way of making you my priority. In the name of Jesus I pray, Amen.

1.    Matthew 7:13 (NLT).

Today’s Encounter was written by: Gianna B.