“What are your intentions…?” This question often arises when a parent inquires about their daughter’s boyfriend or when we find ourselves committing to plans that we struggle to follow through on.
Take, for instance, my collection of charming cards and stationery, which I intended to use for writing thank-you notes or words of encouragement. While I do occasionally send them out, more often than not, those good intentions simply remain tucked away in that drawer, alongside the unopened stationery. It’s a candid realization: as much as I would love to send handwritten notes, it’s not one of my gifts. However, there’s joy in receiving them. Each time I find a card in my mailbox, it warms my heart, and I think, “I could do that!” So if you ever receive a note from me, consider it a delightful surprise!
Intentions, whether positive or negative, are born in our minds. Here’s a question for you: how many of you find yourselves overthinking or wrestling within your own thoughts? I know I do frequently. At this moment, I pray that we both find peace, allowing ourselves to listen to what God has in store for us.
To truly move forward, we must step out of our own way and make space for the Lord to cultivate kindness, truth, integrity, and righteousness in our hearts and minds. Our focus should be on Him and His will for our lives. Ask the Lord to keep your thoughts pure and pleasing.
Blessings to you and yours,
Stephanie
Bible verses for intention:
“Will they who devise evil not go astray? But kindness and truth will be to those who devise good.” Proverbs 14:22
“Since I know, my God, that You put the heart to the test and delight in uprightness, I, in the integrity of my heart, have willingly offered all these things; so now with joy I have seen Your people, who are present here, make their offerings willingly to You. Lord, God of Abraham, Isaac, and Israel, our fathers, keep this forever in the intentions of the hearts of Your people, and direct their hearts to You.” 1 Chronicles 29:17-18
“For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord; walk as children of light (for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness, and truth), as you try to learn what is pleasing to the Lord. But all things become visible when they are exposed by the light, for everything that becomes visible is light.” Ephesians 5:8-10, 13
“For the word of God is living and active, and sharper than any two-edged sword, even penetrating as far as the division of soul and spirit, of both joints and marrow, and able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart.” Hebrews 4:12