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“Enter by the narrow gate. For the gate is wide and the way is easy that leads to destruction, and those who enter by it are many.” Matthew 7:13 (ESV)

Never been good at backing up or parking. Especially don’t like it when my vehicle is huge. I’ve been driving the “tank” (SUV) for the past month. I’d much rather drive my small BMW but a sciatic nerve issue doesn’t like me constantly putting in the clutch to change gears. So my sweet hubby and I switched and I’ve become the driver of our “tank.”

Practice makes perfect or should I say practice helps. I’ve learned to back into my parking space at work with ease. If I simply keep my eyes focused on the side mirrors and stay within the lines, I park beautifully. But if I get outside the lines or allow myself to focus on the vehicles parked beside me then I risk – well let’s just not go there. Hitting someone’s car is my parking fear.

Focus is everything when it comes to staying inside lines. We learned that the moment we picked up our first crayon and attempted to color pretty. Didn’t get it right for quite a while, but practice works and before we knew it coloring was a breeze. But staying inside the lines isn’t limited to parking or coloring.

God’s boundary lines are an ongoing reminder of His deep love for us. His protection is undeniable, and He longs to see us avoid the pitfalls of stepping outside the lines. Intentionally keeping our eyes fixed on God’s truths creates a safety net guiding us in the best direction. Avoiding the distractions surrounding us eliminates the risk of allowing our feet to wander where we know we shouldn’t go. Daily prayers seeking God’s input in our day keep us perfectly poised for obedience.

Sound simple doesn’t it? But you and I both know staying on the narrow way is far from easy. We can quickly find ourselves entangled with people and things that draw us away from God’s best. Somehow we lose sight of His goodness and protection when the tangible, visible entices a more better way. Lost perfection forgets grace covers all and avoids return because of shame and guilt.

Sweet friends avoiding the devastation of stepping outside the lines will require intentional, committed and determined focus. But in those moments when Satan’s tactics convince us otherwise, God remains a fountain of amazing grace ready to steer us back on course.

“Father, Your way is the only way for us to succeed. Teach us to love Your Word and follow hard after You.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life