Are You Walking Down a Narrow or Wide Road? By Shemekia Cooper

We are often taught how to live right such as actions that we should not do, places we should not go, words that we should not say, or even people that we should not associate with. We are quoted several scriptures to support the righteous way of living and I desire to abide by them all. Jesus says in Matthew 7: 13-14, “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 the road that leads to life, and only a few find it (NIV).” Honestly, I am fearful of slipping off of the narrow path; but I find myself doing it. Once I realize that I have said too much, it is too late. Throughout the day I play back in my mind conversations that I had with people. Many times I breathe a sigh of relief knowing that my light was shining and other times I am like “Aww Man!”

What happens when we, or maybe it is just me, jump up on the curb or fall off the path? I encourage you to ask God for forgiveness immediately. Praying to God to forgive us for those sins that are committed knowingly and unknowingly. We do not always have to be in our quiet place to cry out to God and crying out does not necessarily mean that it is in a loud voice. We can whisper to Him with a sincere heart and he hears us. I find myself doing this in my classroom, teacher’s lounge, my car, in the store, and anywhere else I feel the conviction of my actions. We also have to forgive ourselves. We can be our own captor by holding ourselves hostage in a dark place of unforgiveness. Acts 13:38 tells us, “Therefore, my friends, I want you to know that through Jesus the forgiveness of sins is proclaimed to you (NIV).” This forgiveness allows us to get back on the narrow path and to continue a Kingdom walk with a Kingdom mindset. Also, remember, we have to forgive others if we want to be forgiven. “And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive him, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins” (Mark 11:25).

The word “Grace” has stuck out to me every since Apostle taught so thoroughly on it. It seems as if I hear it each time I tune in to the Word of God, whether on television, radio, or through my studies. So, don’t wallow in your mistakes by staying on the wide path, have a true and repenting spirit. His Grace is our covering, a gift from God. Receive the gift, use it and not abuse it.

Tell yourself, I AM FORGIVEN!!!! Now stand up straight, tall, and continue to walk in righteousness!