When we try our best to be a Christian, at times, it just seems to be such a long way to the kingdom living in this world today. As every day passes, it appears that this country, as well as other countries of the world, are lacking in God's direction. Things are out of control and our Heavenly Father is not pleased with many of his children. We are in a spiritual battle like never before in history and it will continue to get worse in the near future. As individuals, we need God's direction more than ever to overcome the temptations and tribulations of the world. So, as Christians, what can we do to make our path along the way to the kingdom a little smoother? Lets begin our study in the book of Matthew and gain a little insight on what it takes to enter the kingdom of God.

  Christ was teaching His disciples how to teach, as well as the choices we have in life during our times of tribulation. Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: (Matthew 7:13). The narrow gate (straight path), is the way to righteousness and to heaven. The wide gate (winding path), is the ways of the world, the highway to hell. (Those who always want to rebel, or take the easy way out). You have two paths, or gates to follow. Reference: (Deuteronomy 30:14-18), "the nature of God's law." Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it. (Matthew 7:14). The gateway to life is small and the road is narrow and long. "Only a few will find it." However, this number has increased since the crucifixion of Christ. Many have found the way in the past, and many more will find it in the near future. Why? Because the truth is spreading like never before. "However, we still have a long way there."

  It was a long way to the promise land for the for the people of Israel during the Exodus. "For forty years they wondered in the wilderness." Why? Because they would not take the straight path of righteousness God's way, but would rather take the crooked path of their ways, or "ways of the world." Because they continually disobeyed God, He let them wonder for the forty years (probation period if you will), till they finally got their act together. Its the same way for us as Christians today as we go through life in our daily trials and tribulations. Before we reach the kingdom of God, "Its going to be a long way there." Why? For the same reasons as the people of Israel during the Exodus. We lack God's direction, do not obey His commandments, listen to false teachings, and follow the ways of the world.

  Wow, am I coming down on Christians? Not really, just the ones who need a wake-up call. "I'm guilty of slacking myself at times." However, we all need to realize that being a Christian is not going to be a bed of roses as many may think. We are in a spiritual war; it takes preparation, hard work, and more important, "it takes help from God for our protection." What are we fighting against that we need this protection? The fiery darts of Satan! (Ephesians 6:16). Remember what it says about "what and who" we are up against as Christians. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. (Ephesians 6:12). We are not fighting against people made of flesh and blood, but against the evil rulers of the unseen world. Mighty satanic beings and great evil princes of darkness who rule this world; and against huge numbers of wicked spirits in the spirit world.

  God had redeemed Israel before, and will deliver them from any future troubles. But now thus saith the LORD that created thee, O Jacob, and he that formed thee, O Israel, Fear not: for I have redeemed thee, I have called thee by thy name; thou art mine. (Isaiah 43:1). When thou passest through the waters, I will be with thee; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow thee: when thou walkest through the fire, thou shalt not be burned; neither shall the flame kindle upon thee. (Isaiah 43:2). Referring to Israel's future. A promise of future deliverance for troubles of any and all kinds. Applies to all who follow our Heavenly Father and obey His laws. (God can deliver you out of any problems).

  So again, what's the key to make our lives a little easier on our road to the kingdom? We need to acknowledge God in all His ways, and He will direct you. In all thy ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct thy paths. (Proverbs 3:6). We need get back to the Lord, acknowledge and seek Him out. For thus saith the LORD unto the house of Israel, Seek ye me, and ye shall live. (Amos 5:4). The Lord says to Israel and to us all: "Come back to Me and live!" Then, He will comfort us in all our tribulations. How? With the help of the "Holy Spirit."