For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth. If ye endure chastening, God dealeth with you as with sons; for what son is he whom the father chasteneth not?
Hebrews 12:6-7
Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.
Matthew 7:13-14
For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.
Romans 8:18
Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit.
John 15:1-2
Now no chastening for the present seemeth to be joyous, but grievous: nevertheless afterward it yieldeth the peaceable fruit of righteousness unto them which are exercised thereby.
Hebrews 12:11
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.
Galatians 5:22-23
While God is pruning us to produce His everlasting, sustaining and beautiful attributes in our lives, it can seem difficult at times. The shedding of the flesh can be trying – the flesh must be replaced by Kingdom traits. Thankfully, God knows the outcome of such pruning, training and discipline. The God of love gives us Himself.
Like a reversed funnel, a narrow road leads us to the door of Heaven where God’s endless, and immense glory, love, peace and presence reside. Let Him take you through the “narrows” to develop the never-ending, measureless Kingdom of love in your life.
As he spake these words, many believed on him. Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed;
John 8:30-31
God, lead me to life everlasting. Take me to the narrow way so that I may inherit Your vast Kingdom of love.
Take time to think about Heaven this weekend. Right now, those who have preceded us are there enjoying forever with their Father. What a day it will be when we join them. ☺
God bless,
Mark