The Strait Draw

In a post last week, we asked for your thoughts about two familiar Bible verses, quoting Jesus:

Enter you in at the strait gate, for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leads to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat; Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leads to life, and few there be that find it. - Matthew 7:13-14 (KJV)

A "straight" in poker is spelled differently from these verses -- five cards numerically in a row, such as 5-6-7-8-9.  But achieving that straight sometimes requires a "strait" card to fall.

For instance, you may have 8-9 and see 5-6 on the flop.  The missing 7 you're seeking can have many slang names in poker, such as a "gutshot" or a "belly-buster."  But a "strait" shot is fitting, because that spelling of the word can mean "narrow or constricted."  A 6 or an 8 will not do to complete the straight; you must have a 7.

Plenty of players pursue that kind of straight, even though the chances of hitting it even on the river are only 8.7%.  Yet how many take a "strait gate" approach to their living?  Jesus is indicating that pursuit will pay off in eternal life -- and He's indicating the payoff is guaranteed.

So how do you "go strait?"  Our American Heritage Dictionary notes another definition of that word: "Strict, rigid or righteous."  The first two words in quotes go against the thinking and desires of many people.  But thankfully, God provided help with the last one....

It is because of him that you are in Christ Jesus, who has become for us wisdom from God -- that is, our righteousness, holiness and redemption. - I Corinthians 1:30

See what He did there?  Jesus becomes the righteousness for people who believe in Him.  While some ministers define "righteousness" simply as commandment-keeping (Psalm 119:172), the apostle Paul dares to say Jesus can fill that role as well.

Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God. - Ephesians 5:1-2

Read and study the Bible each day to see how God functions and Jesus lived (still living in heaven, in fact).  Following what you read will help you squeeze out the greatest of narrow victories.