Yes this applies to you. I know you probably are not a farmer. If you want to read what a real farmer has to say about plowing check out this post by The Lazy Farmer. Here in Proverbs we have a figurative illustration from a world when most people plowed. A non-farmer “tills” (5647) by going about the business that is his. He works. We have a concrete example that has many figurative applications. We all till in different ways. It is our work that supplies our needs.
And don’t start asking about the farmer in dust bowl America. This is a principle, not a law. There is a contrast set up. When you are tilling it is important to keep focused (see above link). If God has given you a task and you follow it faithfully then you will “be satisfied” (have plenty NASB) (7646). I think the KJV is much better here. The second part of the verse points out how easy it is to get off track. This is where the figurative nature of this Proverbs becomes clear. If you just look at the first half you miss the real point of the verse.
The contrast to working is “followeth" (pursues NASB) (7291). On the one side we have the steady drive toward a goal that is productive, tilling. On the other we have the idea of chasing after whatever pops into our minds. I have the picture of a puppy in a field of butterflies. He chases one, then another, and never catches anything.
This brings to mind the great statement about straight plowing,
(Matthew 6:33 KJV) But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.So? Am I losing my focus? Am I wandering all over the field? Has the crisis of the day made me abandon my Christian principles? Have I fallen into the trap of thinking I can sin in this little area and repent later? It is time to get back to the plow.
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