The Christian life is truly invigorating. Being connected and actively engaged with God, the source of life, joy and peace, never becomes boring. This is true not only because we interact with the Creator but also because we are continuously challenged to live according to Jesus’ example. The Son of God performed many miracles but also endured trials and opposition in the completion of His journey on earth.
Jesus said that the life of the believer would be a reflection of His own. The life that Jesus lived, consisted of perfect integrity, obedience, love of God and others, self-control, mercy and truth. It separated Him from every human being that has ever walked the earth. To pass as a reflection (even if not perfect) of the King of Heaven requires determination and a willingness to change from within.
“Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction [eternal separation from God], 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. – Mathew 7:13-14 (NKJV), []added
“And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.” – Romans 12:2 (NKJV)
In Romans 12:10-17, Paul describes a Christian that walks on the narrow road:
“Let love be without hypocrisy. Abhor what is evil. Cling to what is good”
Our love should be sincere, true and without pretense, manifesting through action. We should detest all things that God describes as evil and uphold all things that God describes as good. Those who love God keeps His commandments; The Holy Spirit helps us with this and God does not condemn us when we sincerely repent as we progress. Evil must never be justified even if it is a means to a desired end. Practicing evil in secret while we condemn it in public is not hidden from God’s gaze.
“Be kindly affectionate to one another with brotherly love, in honor giving preference to one another”
Our interactions should be filled with truth, but covered in mercy and compassion. Believers should never impose themselves to detriment of another but aim to accommodate each other.
“Not lagging in diligence, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord “
Our efforts should be characterized by passion (not indifference), excellence and obedient alignment with the purposes of the Father.
“Rejoicing in hope, patient in tribulation, continuing steadfastly in prayer”
Our hearts should be focused on our savior Jesus Christ and the hope that His works has given us – regardless of our circumstances. We are to remain patient and grateful during trails because we know God is trustworthy and able; immersed in regular prayer because we know God values our relationship and He acts on our behalf.
“Distributing to the needs of the saints, given to hospitality”
Our generosity should not only be evident in words but also the physical hospitality (without strings attached) that we display.
“Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse”
Our behavior and reactions should be a conduit for the life we receive from the Father; the light of God that pierces the darkness and creatively changes the environment around us.
“Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep”
Our hearts should celebrate other’s accomplishments and share the burden of one another’s anguish.
“Be of the same mind toward one another. Do not set your mind on high things, but associate with the humble. Do not be wise in your own opinion.”
Our attitudes should be grounded in humility, and our gifts and talents applied with the keen awareness that they originate from God, with the purpose of glorifying Him.
“Repay no one evil for evil. Have regard for good things in the sight of all men.”
Our longing should be to see and bring out the best in those around us. In turn this will bring out the best in ourselves.
The road is indeed narrow and we require God’s map to stay on course, but the destination is worth the trip!
God comes first which allows us to love others in a way that bring them along on the road that leads to eternal life.
Have a blessed week.