Most good things don't come easily. We must be single-minded to realize the life-walk that God has designed for us. Being single-minded means to focus entirely on the goal. Each spring at home on the farm I had the job of helping to plow the fields in preparation for planting. My dad always told me to look straight ahead at something on the other end of the field rather than looking behind the tractor to see how straight my furrow was. Of course I had to try it both ways. Whenever I looked back and tried to plow a straight furrow it ended up really crooked. However, when I locked my sight on a post or tree at the other end of the field the furrow turned out straight and formed the guide for plowing the rest of the field.
In our spiritual lives we need to discipline our will to focus on God's ways. In Ephesians 4:17-32 we are encouraged to incorporate several guiding principles. First in verse 23 we are challenged to "be renewed in the spirit of our mind." A right attitude or spirit in life will help us to 'plow our furrows' straight. Further we are admonished to "speak truth with our neighbor." Such integrity is essential in representing God's ways to others. Finally, we are to focus on relationships. Verse 32 stresses kindness, tenderheartedness and forgiveness.
Just as plowing a straight furrow in the field requires focus, so living a life that is in accord with God's Word and ways requires our will to be under God's control. When it is then we can have an impact on those around us and enjoy the blessing of God in our life. Set your will in accord with his will and our furrow will never be crooked.
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