The Value of Good Intentions

by David Gibson

When you hear the expression “good intentions,” what comes to mind? A noble desire that fizzles out? We even have a saying, “The road to hell is paved with good intentions.”

Empty promises

An example of good intentions gone awry is that of the Israelites’ repeated pledge to obey God (Exodus 19:8; 24:3, 7). But soon they were worshiping the golden calf (Exodus 32).

Promises kept

And yet, Ruth expressed her determination never to leave her widowed mother-in-law Naomi (Ruth 1:16-17). She kept her word.

Hannah promised that if God would give her a son, she would give him back to God (I Samuel 1). She did.

Paul announced his plans to visit Rome. Despite tremendous hardships, with God’s help, he finally arrived at his destination (Acts 19:21; 23:11; Romans 1:10-15; 15:22-32; Acts 28:14-31).

The problem, then, is not with good intentions per se. Countless great accomplishments began with good intentions.

Three stages

So what do we need? Follow-through, dogged persistence, tenacity. In other words: Good Intentions → Consistent Effort → Mission Accomplished

Paul was concerned that the Corinthians’ zeal for sending aid to their poor Jewish brethren had cooled. He urged them, “But now finish doing it also, so that just as there was the readiness to desire it, so there may be also the completion of it by your ability” (II Corinthians 8:11 NASB). Paul’s appeal was successful. They came through! (Romans 15:25-28).

How we need good intentions! No other kind will do.