There Must Be More Than This Provincial Life

“You can enter God’s Kingdom only through the narrow gate. The highway to hell is broad, and its gate is wide for the many who choose that way. But the gateway to life is very narrow and the road is difficult, and only a few ever find it.” – Matthew 7:13-14.

Lyrics from the Beauty and the Beast Song Belle: “There goes the baker with his tray, like always. The same old bread and rolls to sell. Ev’ry morning just the same. Since the morning that we came. To this poor provincial town…there must be more than this provincial life.”

Have you ever said to yourself, “There has got to be more to life than this?” Most of us spend a little of our time being unsatisfied, discontented with our lot. People who are unemployed long to have a job, those in employment long for a better job and those in top jobs long to retire. It is part of the “grass is greener on the other side” mentality. We’re constantly seeking for something else, something better. Our lives seem to be a constant search for something. We live in a dissatisfied state even when things are going really well. We have a nagging feeling that there must be more to life than this, whatever “this” may be at the time. You’re certain that there’s more to be had, but you’re not sure what it is. Surely this isn’t all there is? Surely this isn’t it?

That itch you feel when you’re alone and quiet and thinking about life, that hunger for purpose and identity is evidence that deep down you know that something temporary will never be enough. You know that there must be something bigger than you, something eternal. That eternal thing is God. We need something eternal to satisfy us ultimately. If you are looking for more out of your life, the answer is clear and available. You will find what you are looking for when you follow Jesus.

The best, most fulfilling, most satisfying life is found only in following Jesus. There are a lot of things out there that promise you a better life, better friends, better relationships, more fun, and more success. In the end, many of these things leave us empty and dissatisfied. Jesus said, “… I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” (John 10:10)

Jesus never promised us that life would be perfect or easy. In fact, He said we’d have troubles in this life. But when we face a tough spot we have the assurance that His love will help us change, overwhelming us with His presence and guiding our steps.

Discussion Questions:

Have you ever wondered if there is more to life than what we are experiencing?
“The closer I get to Jesus, the less I care about me, and the more I care about people.” What’s your reaction to this statement.
In what areas of your life do you need to trust God more?