Off the Beaten Path

As we continue to search for the path that leads us to be closer to Christ we scour the old, overgrown path that is not travelled by multitudes. We will not find Him on the well worn, frequently traversed highway. "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 that leads to life, and there are few who find it." Matthew 7:13-14 Wait what?!? ". . .difficult is the way?" Christ forded this path we, "the few," attempt to follow and we should not be surprised by the suffering that accompanies us. He told us that it would be. 

We are living in a culture that is not interested in difficult. We assume that the difficult part is what is inflicted upon us. We feel that we will at some point face trials that happen along the way, we will stumble upon them. Scripture is clear that this way, this path, is a choice and to choose it is choosing difficulty. To choose the path closer to Christ is to choose the difficult, challenging way that will include suffering. 2 Corinthians 1:4-5 states, "[the Father] who comforts us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort those who are in any trouble, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God. For as the sufferings of Christ abound in us, so our consolation also abounds through Christ." 

This route is steep and rocky. It is dark and full of pitfalls. Moving forward through this treacherous terrain on an overgrown path that is often lonely, because remember there are few on it, is a choice we make that springs forth out of our love for Christ. We know to be close to Christ means to follow this path. And our hearts desire must not settle for less. This rocky unstable path also indicates action. A path is not for standing, it is for travel. "Your word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path." Psalm 119:105 Why do we need a light if we are not moving? God's word is to direct us as we move down this path that is laden with suffering and difficulties that we might navigate the way to the Christ. Friend, don't be afraid of the journey. It will be hard but the outcome is for the glory of Christ who is more than deserving. As odd as it may seem and as foreign and nonsensical to the world we are to rejoice in our suffering. We cannot do that in our own strength but our position in Christ makes that possible for those who love Him wholeheartedly. "Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in needs, in persecutions, in distresses, for Christ's sake. 'For when I am weak, then I am strong.'" 2 Corintians 12:10 

When we get to the level of devotion to Christ that embraces the suffering that comes with carrying His banner, forfeit our comfort for His glory, lay down our desires for His mission, we will have achieved a relationship that is closer to Christ.