"Ponder the path of thy feet, and let all thy ways be established. Turn not to the right hand nor to the left: remove thy foot from evil" (Proverbs 4:26-27).
We are all on a journey right now, and this journey will last for the rest of our lives. It is a journey down a long and dangerous highway, one that is filled with potholes, dangerous curves, fake detour signs, and broken-down guard rails.
To stay on the highway, we must keep our eyes focused straight ahead, our mind set on Christ and His way of righteousness. Guard your eyes and guard your mind. Be careful of the people you hang out with, lest they lead you off the right path.
Looks Like ...
Back in Bible times, plows were simply made, very lightweight, and required great attention to keep them in the ground. One type of Palestinian plough was made up of two wooden beams which were joined together, at the front end hooked to a yoke, and at the rear end fastened to a crosspiece. The upper part served as the handle, and the lower part held the actual iron plow. Two oxen or other animals would be attached to the yoke.
The farmer held one handle of the plow with one of his hands, while he carried a long stick with a pointed end in the other hand, to prod the animals. During the process, the farmer would also have to press down with all his weight on the plow (because it was so light) in order to make the furrows deep enough. If the farmer got distracted and looked to the right, left, or even behind - that row would turn out crooked and the furrows wouldn't be deep enough. Now if he plowed one row incorrectly, a farmer could still do the next row correctly. But a whole field of crooked furrows would indicate that the plowman didn't really care.
We should compare plowing crooked furrows to our personal walk with the Lord. We need to look and walk straight ahead. The Good News Bible says it this way. "Avoid evil and walk straight ahead. Don't go one step off the right way." (Proverbs 4:27) If we are distracted by sin, plowing crooked furrows in our Christian walk, we will not be fit for service in the kingdom of God.
Ask Yourself ...
What would my spiritual walk look like if you could see the furrows left behind me?