Articles
To Do What It Takes
Some years ago a U.S. senator was quoted as saying, “Balancing the budget is like going to heaven. everybody wants to do it, but few are willing to do what it takes to get there” (Greenville Herald-Banner). He has a point!
And someone said to him, “Lord, will those who are saved be few?” And he said to them, “Strive to enter through the narrow door. For many, I tell you, will seek to enter and will not be able.” (Luke 13:23-24).
Two extremes must be avoided. One is thinking that it’s easy to make it to heaven. The other extreme is thinking that it’s practically impossible. The first view leads to complacency; the latter to despair. The New Testament teaches that the road to eternal life is challenging, yet attainable. Sadly, few are willing to make the effort (Matthew 7:13-14).
But as Paul and Barnabas worked with new converts they were “strengthening the souls of the disciples, encouraging them to continue in the faith, and saying that through many tribulations we must enter the kingdom of God” (Acts 14:22).
I like that: “strengthening . . . encouraging” in view of the “many tribulations.” The key is “to continue in the faith.” Just be faithful today and then the next day and the next, and keep it up until you reach your destination! Millions have already done it, and so can we!
God so desires our salvation that He has provided all the resources we need in order to reach our heavenly goal. He has given us His Word to guide us, prayer to strengthen us, His Spirit to enable us, His promises to motivate us, and fellow travelers to encourage us.
Therefore, brothers, be all the more diligent to confirm your calling and election, for if you practice these qualities you will never fall. For in this way there will be richly provided for you an entrance into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. (2 Peter 1:10-11).
Scripture quotations are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
