Matthew 7:13-14

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Scripture: Matthew 7: 13-14 Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: Because strait is the gate and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.

Observation: These verses are usually used referring to salvation - there is only ONE way to get to heaven, and that is through faith in the death, burial and resurrection of Christ. But reading this again today, I realized that it's application doesn't end there. After you are saved, the way doesn't get any broader... Once saved, we are no longer on the path to destruction, we have entered at the strait gate, but we still have a path to continue on, and there are others who are watching us on our ascent. Others who stand at the gate, unsure if they want to choose the narrow way or the broad way. And they are watching us so carefully...

Application: Everything I think, say. do and feel is watched... by my children, by my family, by my neighbors and by the unsaved masses. There are many who told me that I was choosing the wrong gate and that this way is too hard. There are many who are waiting for me to give up and run back to the broad way, and there are many who are just watching... trying to make their own decision.  As I follow the narrow path, walking in my Saviour's footsteps, with Him holding tight to my hand, I know that my faith is being scrutinized. Every time God brings me through an obstacle, they are watching, ever time I fail, they are watching. Every time that I take the next step in faith, they are watching, and every time I refuse to take a step because of fear, they are watching. As a Christian, nothing I do is of little consequence. Whether I smile or cry, serve or sit idle, share the gospel or say nothing... everything I do will have a weight upon someone else who has yet to choose their gate...

Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, Thank You Lord for those who made the choice before me... for those that I was able to watch. Thank you for their faith in You being made visible. Dear Lord, I want to be in their place now. I have made the choice to follow You wholeheartedly, and I want to be an encouragement to others as I do. Help me to never forget that they are watching. I know there will be times when the climb is hard and I have to sit and rest... Please Lord, let them see me take strength from You. I know there will be times when I get hurt and cry...Please Lord, let them see Your healing power in my life. I know there will be times when I cannot see where I must put my foot next... Please Lord, let them see me turn to You for guidance. And Lord, I know there will times when You carry me above the trials and troubles in this life... Please Lord, let them see You mercy and glory shining through. The way is narrow Lord, but I know You have tread here before. Please Lord, help me to always follow in Your footsteps. In Jesus name, Amen.