Be Intentional

What does the phrase “be intentional” mean?
It means to do everything with purpose and not go through life passively. It is easy to become mundane or go through life aimlessly, but as believers, the Lord wants us to do everything with intention.

How can we be intentional?
Romans 12:2 (AMP) states,

“And do not be conformed to this world [any longer with its superficial values and customs], but be transformed and progressively changed [as you mature spiritually] by the renewing of your mind [focusing on godly values and ethical attitudes], so that you may prove [for yourselves] what the will of God is—that which is good and acceptable and perfect [in His plan and purpose for you].”

Colossians 3:23–24 (NKJV) says,

“And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance; for you serve the Lord Christ.”

We must not live by the world’s standards, but instead, focus on the things of the Lord. We cannot allow temporary things to distract us from our God-given callings. Instead, we must seek the Lord with all our heart and soul. Whatever we do, we must do it as if we are doing it unto the Lord—working diligently, slacking in nothing, and giving every God-given assignment our all.

We should confidently trust the Lord with all our hearts, lean not on our own understanding, and acknowledge Him in all our ways. Then He will make our paths straight (Proverbs 3:5–6). If we do all of these things, we will not fall into complacency.

It is important to be intentional because everything the Lord does is done with purpose. And since we are made in His image and likeness—a reflection of Him—we must do everything with purpose as well.