The Difficult Path

Choices

In America, we prefer a variety of choices. At grocery stores, we can buy hundreds of flavors of tea, coffee, soup, and soda. If you want to purchase a box of cereal, you must choose from a varied assortment of grains, fruits, shapes, and colors. All companies are trying to improve traditional products. Ketchup & mayonnaise come in “upside down” squeeze bottles. Bread comes in a convenient “no crust” loaf.

Convenience

Convenience is desired in all our transactions. So, we have drive-through restaurants and drive-up bank tellers. I have even heard of a drive-through window at a funeral home.

Crosses

Yet, Jesus was constantly challenging his followers to leave a comfortable existence and to live by faith in a realm where we are forced to trust God. Christ said, “And he that taketh not his cross, and followeth after me, is not worthy of me.” Crosses are not comfortable. Just ask Jesus.

Expect Opposition

Following Jesus will lead to harassment. Around the world Christians are persecuted for their faith. When Jesus stated in the Sermon on the Mount, “Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness’ sake,” he stressed the blessed person who stands for what is right will face opposition.

However, persecution is a compliment. If we are effective in our stand for truth, those who oppose righteousness will seek to eliminate our influence. Therefore, we must view difficult times as opportunities to grow. Paul wrote, “We glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; And patience, experience; and experience, hope: And hope maketh not ashamed” (Romans 5:3-4). The easy path is comfortable, but it is not beneficial. Take the difficult path.