Steep, craggy, and beset with
foes. Newman Hall. Follow Jesus. There are many variations in
the Christian's path. Sometimes it is smooth and flowery,
with sunny slopes and sylvan shades, and prospects which entrance
the soul with loveliness. There are seasons when no doubts
perplex the spirit, and when our circumstances in life are
in harmony with duty, so that the right path is an easy path. But this is the exception. Often
the road is steep, craggy, and beset with foes. Sometimes it
is a hill difficulty throughout, and Apollyon stretches himself
across the way, aiming his fiery darts at the pilgrim. Then some
by-path attracts us by its pleasantness, while Satan whispers that a thorny
and painful road cannot be the true one. But Jesus never promised
to lead us only in smooth places. It is not necessary that we should
always rejoice, but it is necessary that we always follow. Wherever
He goes, rough or smooth, there we also must go. My sheep hear
My voice, I know them, and they follow Me. I give them eternal
life, and they will never perish, ever. No one will snatch them
out of My hand." John 10, 27 and 28.