Life Lessons from Luke
Strive To Enter (Luke 13:23-24)

by Victoria Okotie – Katy Church Sabbath School Superintendent

A narrow path or gate implies that only a few people can go through it at a time. Jesus responded in the affirmative to a question one of His disciples asked. “Lord, are there few who are saved?” “Yes, only a few will be saved,” He replied. But isn’t salvation free? Yes, indeed! Jesus’ death on the cross paid the penalty for everyone who accepts His free gift. The spiritual journey begins. However, it boils down to choice and determination on the part of each believer by the power of the Holy Spirit to remain faithful to the end.

“Strive to enter” is Jesus’ admonition. The word “strive” in the Greek means to contend, to struggle with difficulty and danger, and to endeavor with strenuous zeal to obtain something. It is similar to the struggle to enter a contest or to contend in a game for a prize.

Today, the distractions to living a victorious Christian life are real. Entertainment, worldly toys, popularity, unholy ambitions, desire to acquire wealth, and the fear of losing it all keep many believers distracted in their journey to heaven. Paul used this term when he spoke to the Corinthians in 1 Corinthians 9:25. Everyone must strive for the mastery to obtain the incorruptible crown.

Jesus wants you not to seek to enter the kingdom of heaven but to STRIVE to enter. For many will seek to enter and will not be able. Wouldn’t you start now and determine to be among the few?