Narrow-mindedness

Christians frequently are called ‘narrow-minded.’ While some take offense at the label, it can actually be construed as a compliment, given this warning from Christ:

“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. For the gate is narrow and the way is hard that leads to life, and those who find it are few.” Matthew 7:13-14

They say the road to hell is paved with good intention, and in a sense this is true. No one starts out saying “I’m going to make a complete mess of my life, and at the same time ensure eternal separation from God after I die.” That’s the natural result, however, when we ignore the Author of life’s instruction manual (the Bible), following instead the world’s instinct to “do what feels right.”

Even for those who want to seek after God, life is full of convenient, relentless distractions. That, of course, is one of the main themes of The Pilgrim’s Progress – despite Christian’s quest for “life, life, eternal life,” there is always something new, just around the bend, that threatens to sidetrack the original desire of his heart. We face the same challenge today; even those seeking after God’s heart have to be aware of our tendency to overcorrect a course change, or to make the latest insight or fad become the object of our focus rather than the Source of Wisdom. We veer all across this narrow road, from the median to both shoulders. Only when focused completely on God’s Word and His Spirit – only when we are narrow mindful – can we stay in our appointed lane.