NIV Spiritual Renewal Study Bible PlanSample

The Narrow Road

Spiritual growth takes place when we turn from our sins and turn toward the new life God has for us. When we have had enough of going our own way and doing our own thing and have finally asked God to redeem our lives, we begin our journey of faith. But the path Christ calls us to follow is narrow and difficult. Jesus said, “Wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it” (Matthew 7:13 – 14).

Peter further pointed out, “You have spent enough time in the past doing what pagans choose to do . . . They are surprised that you do not join them in their reckless, wild living, and they heap abuse on you” (1 Peter 4:3 – 4). People on the “road that leads to destruction” won’t restrict themselves to the moral boundaries God calls us to maintain. However, when we realize the possibilities of the wonderful life here and in eternity that God has called us to, we will eagerly ask him to transform our lives and make us living testimonies to his grace.