Ir is interesting to note that the word translated "broad" is a Greek word related to geography which is "plain". A plain is very flat usually covered with grass. It is very easy to go in any direction chosen with no resistance. And the wide gate makes it easy to enter the plain. This way is the kind of living that allows a person to do anything they want and it leads to death, i.e. separation from God.
On the other hand, the word "narrow" comes from the same Greek root word related to geography which is "canyon". When you enter a canyon you are forced into a narrow way with walls on either side that get higher as you go. You have NO choice of direction and often the way can be awkward and even dangerous.
The other word of interest in your chosen translation is translated "hard pressed". This is better than the KJV translation of "straight". This word comes from the same Greek word translated "tribulation" which comes from a verb meaning "to press upon". This Greek word is translated tribulation, affliction, persecution, suffering, pain, and trouble NONE of which are accurate. This Greek word is all about pressure.
The narrow way is not only a restricting and confining way of life but it is a way of pressure. God puts His people under pressure to force them to make choices. As people grow in Christ their choices will reflect their growth as maturity.
The narrow way of pressure is the only way to a true life found in God.
Thank you you for the wonderful reply, I see you seek the truth of the word! praise Yah!
I think most if not all of the pressure comes from this "firey trial" we are under here on earth:
James 1:12-18, “Blessed is the man who does endure trial, for when he has been proved, he shall receive the crown of life which the Master has promised to those who love Him. Let no one say when he is enticed, “I am enticed by Yah,” for Yah is not enticed by evil matters, and He entices no one. But each one is enticed when he is drawn away by his own desires and trapped. Then, when desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin. And sin, when it has been accomplished, brings forth death. Do not go astray, my beloved brothers. Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of light, with whom there is no change, nor shadow of turning. Having purposed it, He brought us forth by the Word of truth, for us to be a kind of first-fruits of His creatures.”
1 Peter 4:12-19, “Beloved ones, do not be surprised at the fiery trial that is coming upon you, to try you, as though some unusual matter has befallen you, but as you share Messiah’s sufferings, rejoice, in order that you might rejoice exultingly at the revelation of His esteem. If you are reproached for the Name of Messiah, you are blessed, because the Spirit of esteem and of Yah rests upon you. On their part He is blasphemed, but on your part He is praised. For do not let any of you suffer as a murderer, or thief, or doer of evil, or as a meddler. But if one suffers being of Messiah, let him not be ashamed, but let him esteem Yah in this matter. Because it is time for judgment to begin from the House of Yah. And if firstly from us, what is the end of those who do not obey the Good News of Yah? And if the righteous one is scarcely saved, where shall the wicked and the sinner appear? So then, those who suffer according to the desire of Yah should commit their lives to a trustworthy Creator, in doing good."
and may we hold fast to YHWH that we may be strengthened to walk His path!
Psalm 63:1, “O Mighty One, You are my Strength; I earnestly seek You; My being has thirsted for You; My flesh has longed for You In a dry and thirsty land without water.”