Today’s Proverbs 31 devotion was entitled “When Good Intentions Get in the Way” and as I laid in bed pondering the times I had good intentions and how they turned out – usually not so great. I think this devotion, while it was supposed to make me think, it was also to make me stop in my tracks today. Not even an hour later, I was having a difficult conversation via text with my girlfriend. There are two things wrong with that already: 1) difficult conversation and 2) via text. When she told me something, I was tempted to respond with what I thought was a kind and thoughtful message back to her. But I was also praying for wisdom as to what to say – it was already a tough topic. As I thought I got what I was about to say, she said she couldn’t talk anymore. What do I do? Do I give her my “thoughtful” response to make her feel better or do I drop it? At that moment, I was reminded of what I consider that my good intentions might not be perceived as good and will only hinder my potential impact. I dropped it.
Too often in my life, I try to help God along. I’m just now learning what patience and trusting God means after being “fully committed” to Christ for the past 16 or so years. But it has not been an easy lesson. I am always tempted to try to “help” God along the way. Yes, I know it sounds silly – even to me. He’s God, he does not need my assistance in fulfilling his perfect plan for my life. It’s usually when I try to interfere or speed things along that I get into serious trouble, and I’ve been reminded more and more that I need to let go and let God do what he needs to do in my life.
Lord, today as I struggle with my “good intentions”, help me to stop and listen to you. To listen for your guidance and direction, so that my good intentions are seen as truly good intentions, and not because I think I can do everything on my own.