Cheering You Down the Narrow Way

Isaiah said these things because he saw His glory and spoke of Him. John 12:41 ESV1

Read John 12:37-41

I stole the title for this article from the line my friend, Nathan,2 uses to end many of his correspondences. This message is reminiscent of Jesus’ direction:

“‘Enter by the narrow gate. For the gate is wide and the way is easy that leads to destruction, and those who enter by it are many. For the gate is narrow and the way is hard that leads to life, and those who find it are few’” (Matthew 7:13-14).

My friend’s often-used closing remark is a reminder but it is also a reassurance. Anyone who enters the Narrow Gate onto the Road to Jesus’ Kingdom will find that the Way contains some significantly challenging sections. Therefore, those who travel this Road need some cheering on along the way. May this article encourage you to continue on the Hard Way, particularly if you find yourself on an incredibly difficult section of the Road.

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A Little Encouragement Here, Please

“This is My beloved Son, with Whom I am well pleased; listen to Him.” Matthew 17:5b ESV1

Read Matthew 17:1-8, Mark 9:2-8 & Luke 9:28-36

When we talk about mountain top experiences, we speak of times in which we were inspired, times when we had revelations, or times that were unusually enjoyable. Like the strenuousness required to climb a mountain, such experiences are extra satisfying, because they usually come after times of difficulty. Mountain top experiences are not everyday occurrences; they are something special, something out of the ordinary, and something to be remembered. Today, we will consider a mountain top experience which solidified the faith of some of the disciples, but, more importantly, one which empowered Jesus to continue on the path set before Him. Continue reading