Our Paths Are Full of Hard Choices
The right path is usually the hardest. Making the right decision whether big or small can some times be the more difficult decision. Such is true with our path to heaven, the most important journeys are riddled with obstacles and trials for the sole purpose of smoothing out our rough edges. Making decisions that lead us to heaven can even cause friction in our relationships within our families or our friendships.
““Anyone who listens to my teaching and follows it is wise, like a person who builds a house on solid rock. Though the rain comes in torrents and the floodwaters rise and the winds beat against that house, it won’t collapse because it is built on bedrock.”
Matthew 7:24-27
Jesus says in Luke 14:26 “If anyone comes to Me and does not hate his father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters, yes, and his own life also, he cannot be My disciple.” I believe Jesus is saying that our faith should always be at the forefront, ahead of any and all relationships. Some may even be severed by our devotion, but God allows such things to happen so that we can rest in His glory. Those that are torn apart may even be rebuilt with a stronger foundation based in our faith. We should be firm but merciful in our beliefs and sharing it with others. They should be able to see Jesus through us and come to know Him by our charity and faithfulness.
“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms”
1 Peter 4:10
As we walk on our narrow, rocky path we must keep our focus on the Lord. But that doesn’t mean we can’t try to bring others along. If we choose to do so we must remember, however, that we cannot force our faith on others. Share the good news, speak of it in every day conversation, tell of God’s glory and wonder, be an example of Christ here on earth… never cast aside someone who differs in beliefs because you could be the one who hardens or softens their heart to Christ.
“But do not forget to do good and to share, for with such sacrifices God is well pleased.”
Hebrews 13:16
God will bring people to your path by intersecting theirs with yours; the cashier at the grocery store, your child’s teacher, someone at the gym, or even a coworker. Prayerfully discern how God is asking you to help those who cross your path. They are now a part of your journey to holiness, maybe they are even there to teach YOU something! We all need each other, life is hard and we’re all in it together.
“… But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.”
Joshua 24:15
A common misconception with Christian’s of any denomination is that they are abundantly blessed, have no hardships and everything is always sunshine… But we Christians know that couldn’t be further from the truth. Most of our paths have seemingly unbearable mountains, the deepest of valleys and treacherous terrains we must cross. But, in the midst of it all, we CHOOSE Jesus. We CHOOSE faith. We survive because we KNOW God is always with us. He will lead us through it all, every high and every low. On the other side of the hardships is our Father waiting with arms wide open, just like the parable of the Prodigal Son.
Heaven is waiting, embrace your journey!
