When Jesus finished saying these things, the crowds were amazed at his teaching.
As we read Matthew 6-7 for today, I pray you will pause and see where God wants you to reflect and seek what God wants you to make clear to you on your journey closer to Him. Jesus provides so much wisdom in these chapters that leave me thinking and praying for continued transformation. Topics in these chapters include:
- Giving
- Prayer
- Treasures
- Worrying
- Judging
These topics are all sections in my Bible underlined, highlighted, and have notes in the margins. In prayer for open eyes and ears for today, I landed on a few verses that, for some reason, there was nothing.
Enter through the narrow gate. For 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 is the road that leads to life, and only a few find it. Matthew 7:13-14
In the middle of one of the storms we had recently, it took my wife forty-five minutes to make a five drive. As Jennifer drove back and forth, she ran into roadblocks and flooded streets that lead to some tears and fear. Eventually, they made it home safely down a side street that led to home. (prayers for everyone impacted by these recent storms)
What road or path are you on? There are times when I think I’m going in the direction, and I need to stop. It seemed safe, and it wasn’t. I follow the crowd and realize I’ve gone the wrong way. God has a path laid out for you.
- Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways, submit to him, and He will make your paths straight. Proverbs 3:5-6
- The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps. Proverbs 16:9
- The steps of a man are established by the Lord, when he delights in His way. Psalm 37:23
The road seemed wide and perfect, but it led to a dead-end, just like Jennifer the other day. God provides the perfect directions. The road that leads directly to Him. Will you seek His path today? This world offers a path that can lead you in many directions. Our Lord offers us one way. I pray we are all seeking the narrow road that leads to Him.
Matthew 6:10 Your Kingdom come, Your will be done, on earth as it is in Heaven.
Picture Source: St. Mary Magdalene Orthodox Church