GOLF & GOD (2): Playing the Fairway

“Enter by the narrow gate. For the gate is wide and the way is easy that leads to destruction, and those who enter by it are many. For the gate is narrow and the way is hard that leads to life, and those who find it are few” (Matt 7:13-14).

The flag stands some 500 yards away on a sharp dog-legged hole to the left filled with many potential hazards.  The fairway is narrow and lined with sand traps and deep rough on either side.  You do some mental distance calculation and conclude that you could possibly cut over the pond and rough on the left and if you hit it just perfectly.  There’s nothing like “going for it” and turning a dog-legged par 5 into a par 4 by cutting the corner!  Should you go for it?

Every golfer knows the situation I’m describing and can relate to the temptation to trying to take a short cut to the pin.  I mean, who’s disciplined enough to play a short wood or even an iron off the tee in order to play the fairway and set yourself up for a good second shot?  Besides, if you succeed in flying over all deep rough and water, and somehow land in the fairway, you’ll have a great chance for birdie.