All trails have more uphill sections than they have level or downhill sections, it seems, to someone carrying a heavy load. But the better view is always from the top of a hill, and uphill sections are what take us there. Many people put forth only the least amount of effort for almost everything in life. Rather than set high and lofty goals that may require hard work, many are satisfied with far less than they are capable of reaching. Most people choose the wide and broad way that leads downward, or at least the level way. Few choose the more difficult and narrow way (Matthew 7:13-14). Jesus meant His words for the spiritual realm of things—such as seeking the gift of God, which is eternal life.

Jesus said that the way that leads to life is difficult. In order for us to joyfully put forth the effort for something difficult, we need to want to reach that goal. People who love to hike and climb hills are people who have experienced the joy of a view of great grandeur. They will put forth all their effort and do so with great joy. The hills God gives us to climb lead to His Kingdom. We may need to rest now and then, gather our strength and even be encouraged, but these hills are worth every effort to climb. Jesus tells us to carry our cross and follow Him (Matthew 10:38).