Chapter 5

by Praise Malinga

The pathway to eternal life is a narrow and straight road, and it requires dedication, commitment, and sacrifice. As it is written, 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 (Matthew 7:13-14, NKJV).

The pathway is called holiness, and it is the only way to enter into the kingdom of God. As it is written, And a highway shall be there, and a way, and it shall be called the way of holiness; the unclean shall not pass over it, but it shall be for the redeemed; and the wayfaring men, though fools, shall not err therein (Isaiah 35:8, ASV). This means that we must strive to live a life of holiness, separating ourselves from the ways of the world and conforming to the image of Christ.

Our Lord Jesus Christ spoke of the narrow path, saying, If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me (Matthew 16:24, NKJV). This means that we must be willing to sacrifice our own desires, interests, and comforts for the sake of the kingdom of God.

However, being jobless, sick, or facing problems does not necessarily mean we are on the narrow path. Many people face challenges and difficulties, even if they are not saved. But if we are facing challenges and difficulties because of our stand for the kingdom of God, then we are indeed on the narrow path.

For example, if we are offered a job, but it requires us to compromise our values and principles, and we refuse to take it, then we are on the narrow path. If we are persecuted or ridiculed for our faith, and we endure it with patience and perseverance, then we are on the narrow path.

As it is written, Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven (Matthew 5:10, NKJV). This means that when we face challenges and difficulties because of our faith, we are blessed and rewarded in the kingdom of heaven.

Other scriptures that teach us about the narrow path include:

• The way of the righteous is like the light of dawn, that shines brighter and brighter until the full day (Proverbs 4:18, NKJV)
• I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me (John 14:6, NKJV)
• Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling (Philippians 2:12, NKJV)

Let us choose the narrow path, and follow our Lord Jesus Christ, that we may enter into the kingdom of God and inherit eternal life.

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