The Path of Least Resistance


One basic principle of electricity is that it will seek the path of least resistance to complete a circuit. People are very much the same way. Most people go through life looking for the easiest way to travel. Whether we a speaking of a physical path or a spiritual path people tend to seek the path that appears to be the most pleasing. As it is with many things, man simply does not see clearly. His vision is obscured by his own wicked un-regenerated heart.

There is a way which seems right to a man, But its end is the way of death. Proverbs 14:12

I have pondered over this thought as we have spent some time studying Matthew 7:13-14. It speaks of the board path and the narrow path. One leads to life and the other leads to death. Man’s way always leads to death. The path he chooses is the path of least resistance, at least as far as this world is concerned. I would like to take a look and see what God’s Word speaks about the truly least resistive path.

The first thing I that needs to be made clear is the condition of man’s mind. Have you ever heard someone say “that’s why God gave me a brain” in the context of refuting what scripture has to say?

Romans 8:5 For those who are according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who are according to the Spirit, the things of the Spirit. 6 For the mind set on the flesh is death, but the mind set on the Spirit is life and peace, 7 because the mind set on the flesh is hostile toward God; for it does not subject itself to the law of God, for it is not even able to do so, 8 and those who are in the flesh cannot please God.

God’s Word is clear about the condition of man’s mind. Man’s mind is hostile to the things of God. In our flesh it is impossible, not just difficult, to live a life pleasing to the Father.

So is the path this world on truly the path of least resistance. The majority of men believe that to be true. But again we must consult God for the true answer.

1 Peter 3:8 To sum up, all of you be harmonious, sympathetic, brotherly, kindhearted, and humble in spirit; 9 not returning evil for evil or insult for insult, but giving a blessing instead; for you were called for the very purpose that you might inherit a blessing. 10 For, "THE ONE WHO DESIRES LIFE, TO LOVE AND SEE GOOD DAYS, MUST KEEP HIS TONGUE FROM EVIL AND HIS LIPS FROM SPEAKING DECEIT. 11 "HE MUST TURN AWAY FROM EVIL AND DO GOOD; HE MUST SEEK PEACE AND PURSUE IT. 12 "FOR THE EYES OF THE LORD ARE TOWARD THE RIGHTEOUS, AND HIS EARS ATTEND TO THEIR PRAYER, BUT THE FACE OF THE LORD IS AGAINST THOSE WHO DO EVIL."

Think of it. God is very careful to look out for the needs of those that belong to Him. That is too wonderful for me to comprehend. But notice what it says about those that don’t belong to God. God Himself is against them. God is not just indifferent to them, but He has set His very purpose against them for destruction. That is a terrible and terrifying place to be.


Matthew 11:28 "Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. 29 "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. 30 "For My yoke is easy and My burden is light."

Christ gave us the answer. God’s way will always be the path of least resistance. Will you resist man or God? You will either serve this present world and suffer the consequences under God’s eternal judgment, or serve God and God alone enjoying His favor eternally. There is no middle ground. No balance. With God you are either with Him or against Him. And if you are not with Him, He is against you!

Psalm 30:5 For His anger is but for a moment, His favor is for a lifetime; Weeping may last for the night, But a shout of joy comes in the morning.

May the Lord open our eyes and ears that we may truly discern the path of least resistance. Remember, the purpose of seeking God is not to change His mind, but rather it is to conform us to His will. His will is always for our good and for His glory.