Embracing the Hard Path: Finding Value Beyond Easy
We inhabit a world where certain words act as triggers, evoking emotions and reactions. When we encounter the word EASY, our instinct might be to run towards it. Why? Because easy often stands in stark contrast to the challenges and struggles we face. We’re drawn to it, hoping for simplicity, but life rarely obliges.
Consider faith. Many of us initially perceive it as an easy path—a shortcut to comfort and blessings. But when life doesn’t unfold effortlessly, disillusionment sets in. We wonder, “If God won’t make things easy, what’s the point?” Perhaps we even feel entitled to do as we please because life is already hard enough.
Yet, it’s precisely when faith proves anything but easy that we encounter its true depth. Marriage, relationships, success, greatness—all these valuable aspects of life demand effort, sacrifice, and resilience. If we aren’t careful, the pursuit of easy will have us playing to the lowest version of ourselves.
Enter Jesus—the embodiment of grace and love. His invitation to relationship seems easy on the surface. We don’t have to earn it; we simply embrace it. But there’s more to the equation. What’s easy for us may be incredibly difficult for someone else. Jesus’ relationship with humanity wasn’t easy; it cost Him everything.
The Hard Choices That Shape Us
Let’s explore two passages: Luke 6:27-31 and Matthew 5:38-42. Revenge, hatred, and anger are easy responses, but Jesus calls us to do the hard thing—to love our enemies, turn the other cheek, and give generously. These actions transform us, shaping our character and purpose.
We often expect that once we’re connected to God, life will become easy. But the storybook of our lives reveals a different truth. It’s in the hard moments that God meets us—where growth, resilience, and transformation occur. The moment I stepped into single parenthood. It was hard but He met me. My choice to live a still life. It can be hard, but He meets me. My choice to live a life of discipline. It can be hard, but He meets me. My choice to choose healthy. It can be hard, but He meets me.
Conversely, when we chase after easy, we inadvertently watch the fruit of our efforts wither away. Even the rewards that came from hard work fade when we choose the path of least resistance. Have you ever noticed that cheat days rarely involve activities that make us better? Instead, they align with what’s easy—what momentarily satisfies but doesn’t lead to lasting growth.
Jesus’ Yoke: A Surprising Invitation
Matthew 11:28-30 offers a paradox: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”
At first glance, it seems contradictory. Jesus acknowledges life’s burdens, yet promises an easy yoke. But consider this: His yoke isn’t about avoiding challenges; it’s about sharing the load. When we walk alongside Him, we find rest—even amidst life’s difficulties.
In Luke 9:23, Jesus tells His disciples, “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me.” Here, He emphasizes the daily commitment to doing hard things. It’s not about avoiding the cross; it’s about carrying it faithfully.
So, let’s embrace the hard path—the one that shapes us, deepens our faith, and leads to lasting fulfillment. Easy may beckon, but greatness invites us into the version of ourselves that we have been called to be!
Amanda A.
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