True Religion - Octavius Winslow [1808-1878]: Narrow Is The Way, Which Leadeth Unto Life, And Few... That Find It

Fellow pilgrims, the heavenly way we travel is more or less a lonely way. We have, at most, but few companions. It is a "little flock," and only here and there we meet a traveler, who, like ourselves, is journeying towards heaven. As the way is narrow, trying and humiliating to the flesh, there are only a few, under the drawings of the Spirit, who find it [Matthew 7:14].

If, indeed, true religion consisted in a 'mere profession' then there are many on the way to heaven. If the marks of discipleship were merely an orthodox creed, excited feelings, or denominational zeal, then there are many who 'find the way.' But true pilgrims are those with broken hearts; those who are poor in spirit; those who mourn for sin; those who know the music of the Shepherd's voice; those who follow the Lamb; those who delight in the throne of grace; and those who love the place of the cross [Gal. 6:14].

(from "Solitude Sweetened" by Octavius Winslow; 1808-1878)
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'Mere professors' shall be themselves professed unto one day:

Matthew 7:22-23 'Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity'