Sometimes it is very difficult to have faith, and continue to follow the path to salvation. In the Sacred book are the following verses:

Over steep mountains, through tangles of thorns, along narrow ledges and

through brandished swords, if you come, 1-47

Yet a head a sea of flames, and a deep abyss,

you will arrive at a narrow path. 1-48

After following the narrow path step by step, you will come to a path.

This is the trustworthy main path. 1-49

For those who believe in God’s truth, the path to salvation is not easy in the beginning. It is comparable to a runner. In the beginning, sometimes it is very difficult and requires much effort to continue running. But once one gets the second wind, running becomes effortless, like the trustworthy main path. When one reaches this trustworthy main path, only joy will occur.

In summary, like the individual who tries to keep fit, the path to salvation also requires much effort. Like the benefits of exercise to our health, the benefits of having faith is enormous to our salvation.  We must continue to have faith, even through tribulation and sufferings, because there is a future of joy.

Heaven’s Truth Church/Tenrikyo Church