LIVING READY EVERY DAY
MARCH 31, 2026
TEXT: “Strive to enter in at the strait gate: for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able.” —Luke 13:24
In a small village, a magnificent building was constructed. It was so beautiful that everyone who saw it stopped to admire it. People came from far and near just to look at it. Yet, for all its beauty, many never stepped inside. They were satisfied with just seeing it from the outside.
This picture reflects the condition of many Christians today. They admire heaven. They talk about it. They believe it is real. But they are not seriously striving to enter it. There is a great difference between knowing about heaven and actually preparing to enter it.
Jesus did not say “look at the gate”—He said strive to enter. This means effort, seriousness, and commitment. The Christian life is not a casual journey; it is a deliberate pursuit.
Many believers have become too familiar with God’s Word without allowing it to change them. They hear sermons but do not act on them. They know what is right, yet they delay obedience. They carry the name “Christian” but avoid the discipline that true Christianity requires. They depend only on Sunday messages and neglect personal prayer, Bible study, and daily devotion.
Such a life leads to spiritual weakness. It produces believers who talk more than they live.
Jesus warned that on the last day, some will claim to have done many things in His name, yet He will say, “I do not know you.” This is a serious warning against empty Christianity.
We must remember that we are pilgrims on earth. Our focus should be on entering God’s kingdom, not just admiring it. This requires watchfulness, prayer, and a sincere walk with God every day.
Consider Judas Iscariot. He walked with Jesus, listened to His teachings, and saw His miracles. Yet, he was careless in his heart and lost his place. Being close to spiritual things is not enough—you must be truly committed.
Also, in the parable of the ten virgins, five were wise and five were foolish. The wise ones prepared ahead by keeping oil in their lamps, while the foolish ones did not. When the bridegroom came, only those who were ready entered. The others were shut out. This teaches us that preparation cannot be borrowed or delayed.
The Word of God clearly tells us not to be hearers only, but doers. True Christianity is seen in action—in obedience, discipline, and a growing relationship with God.
If we truly desire heaven, we must live for it. We must pray, study the Word, examine our lives daily, and remain faithful.
Striving to enter means refusing complacency and choosing a life that pleases God, no matter the cost.
Heaven is not for observers but for seekers. It is not enough to admire the Christian life—we must live it. Spiritual carelessness leads to loss, but intentional pursuit leads to life. Preparation for eternity must be personal, active, and consistent.
In conclusion, don’t just stand at the gate and admire it—make sure you enter.
SEARCHLIGHT:
Don’t settle for knowing about heaven—live daily to enter it.
PRAYER:
Lord, give me the grace to strive earnestly for Your kingdom. Help me not to be careless or passive, but to live a life of obedience, readiness, and true commitment in Jesus’ name. Amen.
BIBLE READING: 1 Samuel 17-19 | Philippians 2
“PASTOR MICHAEL OMOLE*
