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Characteristics of the Narrow Way – Viral Believer
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Characteristics of the Narrow Way

Introduction

In this ever-changing world filled with distractions and temptations, Christians are called to follow the path laid out by Jesus Christ. Our faith journey, referred to as the “narrow way” in the Bible, is a road filled with challenges and blessings that ultimately lead us to eternal life in the Kingdom of God.

But what does this narrow way entail, and how can we, as believers, stay committed to the course? In this blog post, we will explore the characteristics of the narrow way, drawing from the New King James Version (NKJV) of the Bible, and uncover practical advice for staying on this vital path.

In Matthew 7:13-14, Jesus Christ says, “Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it. Because narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it.”

This passage serves as a reminder that the narrow way is not an easy journey. It is often filled with trials, tests, and tribulations. However, by understanding and embracing the characteristics of the narrow way, we can keep our faith strong and our lives in alignment with God’s will.

Obedience to God’s Word

One of the primary characteristics of the narrow way is obedience to God’s Word. This means that we should submit ourselves to the teachings of the Bible and strive to follow its guidance in our daily lives. In John 14:15, Jesus says, “If you love Me, keep My commandments.”

Obedience to God’s commandments is a fundamental aspect of walking the narrow way, and it is a sign of our love for Jesus and our commitment to Him.

Love for God and Others

Another essential characteristic of the narrow way is love. Jesus teaches us that the two greatest commandments are to love God with all our heart, soul, and mind, and to love our neighbor as ourselves (Matthew 22:37-39).

The narrow way is marked by a deep and genuine love for God, which naturally extends to our fellow human beings. This love should be evident in our words, actions, and attitudes as we interact with others and care for their needs (1 John 3:18).

Self-Denial and Sacrifice

Walking the narrow way involves self-denial and sacrifice. Jesus said, “If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me” (Luke 9:23).

This means that we must be willing to put our own desires, ambitions, and preferences aside in order to follow Christ and fulfill His will for our lives. We may even be called upon to make sacrifices for the sake of the Gospel or to endure suffering for our faith (Philippians 1:29).

Spiritual Growth and Maturity

The narrow way is also characterized by spiritual growth and maturity. As followers of Christ, we should continually strive to grow in our understanding of the Bible, our relationship with God, and our character.

The Apostle Peter writes, “But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ” (2 Peter 3:18). This growth is not only vital for our personal walk with God but also for our ability to effectively serve and minister to others.

Perseverance and Endurance

Perseverance and endurance are key characteristics of the narrow way. Jesus encourages us to “endure to the end” in order to be saved (Matthew 24:13). As we face trials, temptations, and difficulties in our walk with Christ, we must remain steadfast in our faith and trust in God’s promises.

The Apostle Paul urges us to “run with endurance the race that is set before us” (Hebrews 12:1). Our commitment to the narrow way should be unwavering, even in the face of adversity or persecution.

Faithfulness in Prayer and Worship

A life on the narrow way is marked by faithfulness in prayer and worship. Prayer is a powerful way to maintain a close relationship with God and to seek His guidance, strength, and wisdom for our lives.

Jesus taught us the importance of prayer, saying, “Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you” (Matthew 7:7). Worship, whether individually or in fellowship with other believers, is essential in expressing our love and gratitude to God for His goodness, grace, and mercy.

Humility and Submission

Humility and submission are also important characteristics of the narrow way. As believers, we must recognize that we are dependent on God for everything and that our wisdom and strength come from Him alone. The Apostle James writes, “God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble” (James 4:6).

We should submit ourselves to God’s authority and seek to serve Him with humility and gratitude.

Conclusion

As we come to the end of our exploration of the characteristics of the narrow way, we are reminded of the importance of staying the course in our Christian walk. The path may be narrow and difficult, but it leads to eternal life and the glorious presence of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

By understanding and embracing these characteristics, we can deepen our relationship with God and find strength, peace, and joy in our journey of faith.

In conclusion, walking the narrow way is a lifelong commitment that requires dedication, sacrifice, and perseverance.

By focusing on obedience to God’s Word, love for God and others, self-denial, spiritual growth, perseverance, faithfulness in prayer and worship, and humility and submission, we can remain steadfast in our journey toward eternal life.

Let us take to heart the words of the Apostle Paul in Philippians 3:12-14, “Not that I have already attained, or am already perfected; but I press on, that I may lay hold of that for which Christ Jesus has also laid hold of me.

Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.”

Let us continue to press forward, embracing the characteristics of the narrow way, and keeping our eyes fixed on the eternal prize that awaits us in Christ Jesus.

Pastor Duke Taber
Pastor Duke Taber

Pastor Duke Taber

All articles have been written or reviewed by Pastor Duke Taber.
Pastor Duke Taber is an alumnus of Life Pacific University and Multnomah Biblical Seminary.
He has been in pastoral ministry since 1988.
Today he is the owner and managing editor of 3 successful Christian websites that support missionaries around the world.
He is currently starting a brand new church in Mesquite NV called Mesquite Worship Center, a Non-Denominational Spirit Filled Christian church in Mesquite Nevada.