God makes it abundantly clear that double-mindedness or split-allegiances place our spiritual growth and development—and ultimately our salvation—in peril.

If our goal is wrong, our entire being will be off. Our first priority is to be loyal to God, casting aside all distractions and other interests.

A good soldier must exemplify honesty and self-control, qualities God desires in us. Uriah demonstrated this high standard by refusing to violate his code of honor.

Double-mindedness is like being a double agent, serving two masters. As Christ says, one master will be neglected—and unfortunately, it is usually God.

In God's plan, the development of uncompromising character requires struggle and sacrifice. Our victory requires continual drill, tests and development of discipline.

At the end of a seven year cycle, the seventh year on the Hebrew calendar, was the year of release when the Law was publicly and solemnly read.

Michael Phelps' phenomenal success in the Olympics invites four parallels for our spiritual goals.

To wage spiritual warfare, we must endure hardship, not entangling ourselves in the affairs of the world, being single-minded in pleasing our Captain.

To fulfill one's purpose, one must be singularly focused on what one wants to accomplish. Divided minds result in no productivity or even devastation.

We waste a lot of time on foolish pursuits, procrastination, and distractions. Getting control of our time is foundational for seeking God's Kingdom.

We must fight against the world's pulls (including advertising), simplifying our lives, seeking quiet to meditate and build a relationship with God.

Any materialistic goal will decay and deteriorate, having a limited lifetime. Only spiritual treasures last forever. God demands undivided loyalty.

Though Paul's spiritual credentials outstripped all of his coworkers, Paul used none of his rights as an apostle, but gave his life as a sacrifice.

We also need to return to our first love and diligently do the first works, including fellowship, continuing in the doctrine, and doing things properly.

Peace is less of an external situation than an internal state. We can create this state by occasionally getting away from the hustle and bustle of modern life.