Ed Christian's World

The Narrow Road To Life…

Good morning! Today, let’s take a closer look at Narrow Is The Road.

Small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it. .Matthew 7:14

This isn’t merely a suggestion; it’s a stark declaration of reality. The “wide road” represents the path of least resistance, a trajectory dictated by societal norms, immediate gratification, and the pursuit of worldly validation. It’s a path that appears expansive, yet often leads to a hollow existence, a spiritual desert where the soul thirsts for something more.

The “narrow road,” conversely, is a journey of intentionality, a deliberate choice to align oneself with a higher purpose. It demands a willingness to relinquish the fleeting comforts of the world for the enduring treasures of a life lived in communion with God.

This path is not defined by external markers of success or popularity; rather, it is characterized by an inward transformation, a refining process that shapes us into the image of Christ.

The challenges of the narrow road are manifold. It requires confronting our own ego, our ingrained tendencies toward self-preservation, and self-indulgence. It necessitates a radical commitment to truth, even when it clashes with prevailing opinions. It demands a willingness to embrace sacrifice and prioritize spiritual growth over material gain.

Yet, this path is not one of grim austerity. It is a path of profound liberation, a journey into the fullness of life that God intends for us. It is a path marked by deep joy, unwavering peace, and a sense of purpose that transcends the ephemeral pleasures of the world.

We must learn to distinguish between the voices of the world and the voice of God, to sift through the cacophony of competing ideologies, and discern the truth that sets us free.

The narrow road is not a path of self-exaltation but of humble surrender. We must acknowledge our limitations, our dependence on God’s grace, and our need for constant guidance.

While the narrow road may feel solitary at times, we are not meant to walk it alone. We need the support and encouragement of fellow travelers, those who understand the challenges and the rewards of this journey.

The narrow road is not a sprint but a marathon. We must persevere through trials and tribulations, trusting that God’s faithfulness will sustain us to the end.

Dear Lord, In a world that screams for my attention, it’s easy to forget the path You’ve called me to. The wide road looks so smooth, so inviting… but I know deep down, it’s not the way to true life. Give me the courage to choose Your narrow road, even when it’s lonely or hard. Help me stand firm in my faith, even when it’s unpopular. Walk beside me, Lord, and fill my heart with the strength and peace that only You can give. Thank you for the joy of this journey, for the fulfillment I find in following You. I trust that this winding path leads to an eternity with You, a destination worth every sacrifice. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

It is not that Christianity has been tried and found wanting, but that it has been found difficult and left untried.

We often settle for a diluted version of faith, a comfortable compromise that avoids the demands of true discipleship.

Let us, therefore, resolve to embrace the narrow road with courage and conviction, trusting that the journey, though challenging, will lead us to a destination of eternal glory.

Walk daily with God at your side!

Love always,

Ed 🙏🏼

The Essence…

Imagine your soul is a garden. Sometimes, it’s sunny and peaceful, but nothing much grows. Other times, a storm blows through, and while it’s rough, it forces the plants to dig their roots deeper and bloom more beautifully. We need those “storms” sometimes, those challenges, to really see what we’re made of.

Awake, O north wind; and come, thou south; blow upon my garden, that the spices thereof may flow out.   Song of Solomon 4:16

It’s like, would you rather have a perfectly still, boring day or a day with some exciting ups and downs? Even the downs can make the ups feel so much sweeter. We might prefer sunshine and gentle breezes, but a good gust of wind can shake things up and bring out the best in us.

God, wake me up! Whether it’s with a gentle nudge or a full-on shake, I want to be useful to you. I don’t want to just sit here, doing nothing. I want my life to be a fragrant offering to God, a display of faith, love, and resilience.

Dear Lord, please don’t let my soul become stagnant. Stir within me, whether through joy or hardship. Help me to embrace whatever comes my way, knowing that you are working all things for my good and your glory. Let my life be a garden that releases a beautiful fragrance of faith, love, and obedience. I long to please you, and I trust that you will use every season of my life to bring forth the best in me. Amen.

The gem can not be polished without friction, nor man perfected without trials.

This perfectly encapsulates the idea that challenges are essential for growth. Just as a gem needs friction to become polished, our character needs trials to become refined. We shouldn’t fear the “friction” of life, but rather embrace it as an opportunity for growth and transformation.

Walk daily with God at your side!

Love always,

Ed 🙏🏼

Trusting the Inner Compass…

We all seek guidance from trusted individuals, but even the most well-intentioned advice can sometimes miss the mark.

If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.  James 1:5

The true test of any counsel lies in how it resonates with your spirit. God, your ultimate guide, communicates directly with you. He won’t reveal your path to others without also speaking to your heart. You possess the ability to hear His voice.

Instead of relying solely on external opinions, prioritize seeking God’s wisdom through prayer. He has promised to provide it freely. The more you cultivate this direct communication with God, the less you’ll need to depend on others for direction.

The Holy Spirit, residing within you, acts as your counselor, guide, and advisor. He will illuminate the correct path, helping you make choices aligned with His will. Listen to that still, small voice within – an impression, an urging in your heart, offering clear direction. It might not be an audible voice, but a profound sense of knowing.

Father, thank You for Your unwavering love and Your promise to bestow wisdom and clarity upon me. Help me to cultivate a deep sensitivity to Your still, small voice, enabling me to discern Your guidance with clarity. May I recognize any alarms, promptings, and suggestions from You, and respond with prompt obedience. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

God can not give us happiness and peace apart from Himself because there is none.

This underscores the importance of seeking His wisdom, for true peace and direction come from Him alone.

Walk daily with God at your side!

Love always,

Ed 🙏🏼