The Power of Intention: From Purpose to Action
Intentions are more than casual dreams or wishes that don't amount to anything, yet they don't get the job done either as they can become procrastinated action. There is a need for planning and timing but also for implementing and moving toward the goal. There is a place for intentions and planning, but action must follow for the accomplishment.
Understanding the Nature of Intention
The motivation to bring something into reality must be stronger than anything trying to prevent it. Laziness and putting something off "till a more convenient time" have pronounced the death sentence on many envisaged things (Act 24:25). Seldom does a convenient time arrive and we are not guaranteed tomorrow or another opportunity (Lk 12:20; 2 Cor 6:2).
Procrastination destroys good intentions. Act now while the opportunity remains
Don't delay or harden your heart to the Holy Spirit, especially regarding repenting and turning to Jesus for salvation (Heb 3:15). Rather respond with "As for me and my house…" this will be our course of action (Josh 24:15). David was commended for the good intention that was in his heart to build the temple, for although not permitted to build the structure, he did assemble much of the materials (1 Chr 22:7-8). God sees the intention of our heart. Even when we cannot complete the task, our preparation matters.
The Word of God exposes our innermost thoughts and desires, and although wrong intentions haven't damaged or affected another person they are still sin; the planning of evil is tarnishing the purity of thought that God expects of His followers and so needs to be repented of (Heb 4:12). Jesus declared that if the act is sinful, then so is the intention or desire that precedes it (Mt 5:27-28).
Wrong desires, even unfulfilled, are sin in His sight
What Joseph's brothers had intended for his harm God used for good, even to bless them (Gen 50:20). This demonstrates God's sovereign ability to transform even malicious intentions into outcomes that serve His purposes and bring blessing to His people.
The Importance of Timing and Obedience
Sometimes we act on our intentions but are too late, being out of timing with God's directions. The Israelites realized they had made a mistake, yet without repenting of their sin of not responding as and when God wanted, now in presumption decided to follow His "out-of-date" instructions which met with disastrous consequences (Num 14:40-45). Acting on good intentions but missing God's timing can lead to presumption and disaster.
God requires that we obey His instructions quickly, not as a last resort when there is no other option available. Delayed obedience is essentially disobedience. When God speaks, the appropriate response is immediate action, not hesitation or waiting for what feels like a more convenient moment.
Overcoming Barriers to Intentional Living
The New Testament gives several examples of people who expressed their intention to follow Jesus but the cost was too high or other priorities came first (Mk 10:17-22; Lk 9:57-62). The rich young ruler went away sorrowful because his possessions meant more to him than following Christ. Others wanted to bury their dead or say goodbye to their families before committing. Following Jesus requires wholehearted commitment. Anything less reveals divided loyalties.
The magnetic pull of the flesh can easily overpower the important actions of obedient faith (Mk 14:38). Our natural tendencies toward comfort, security, and self-preservation often compete with our spiritual intentions. Watch and pray to overcome its pull for without vigilance and dependence on God's Spirit, even our best intentions can be derailed by the desires of the flesh.
God's intention and objective is that through the church His wisdom is shown to the lost world (Eph 3:10). That means each believer is a vital part and should be actively involved, not just giving lip service to this purpose. We are called to be living demonstrations of God's manifold wisdom, working together to fulfill His redemptive plan.
Reflection and Application:
- Examine areas where you have been procrastinating on good intentions and take action today.
- Ask God to reveal any wrong intentions or sinful desires that need repentance.
- Commit to obeying God's promptings immediately rather than waiting for a "better" time.
- Consider what priorities or possessions might be preventing you from fully following Christ.