"There is a way that seems right to a man, but in the end it leads to death." Proverbs 14:12 (NKJV)

There's a broken rope on display at the Alpine Museum in Bern, Switzerland. It's associated with a tragic story. Seven climbers who scaled the Matterhorn roped themselves together for the return descent, but one slipped and dragged three others with him into an abyss. The three remaining climbers braced for the shock on the rope that linked them together, expecting it to halt their compansion's fall. The tug came, but then to everyone's horror the rope snapped, plunging their four friends to their death.

Nobody knows why an inferior rope was used for such a hazardous venture, but they do know it wasn't genuine Alpine Club rope which was guaranteed and distinguished by a red strand running through it.

Just as reliable equipment is crucial in preparing for the life-and-death adventure of mountain climbing, it's even more essential in preparing for the most important journey you'll ever make; the one from here to eternity. And an "anything goes" attitude... loose connections to the church... casual claims that you're doing your best... and fuzzy notions about God's indulgence don't suggest that you are putting your total trust in Jesus.

Solomon said: "There is a way that seems right to a man, but in the end it leads to death."

And Peter says: "Salvation is found in no one else (than Jesus)" (Acts 4:12). Assurance of a place in heaven comes only through Jesus the Saviour. Believe that He died for your sins and rose again to give you everlasting life. No more will be asked; nothing less will get you in.