Kind intention

“In all wisdom and insight, He has made known to us the mystery of His will, according to His kind intention”  Ephesians 1:8-9

Kind intention – I would have liked something a bit stronger here.  Our culture doesn’t put much weight on “intention” these days.  We commonly hear, “Well, at least he has the right intention” or “His intentions were good, but”.  “Intention” has the sense of an effort that may or may not bring about the desired result.  “Intention” is sort of a wish or a dream that didn’t quite make it into reality.

But that’s not even close to what this word really means.  Eudokia is a combination of eu (a word that means “good”) and dokeo (meaning “to think”).  But the sense of it is not just “good thoughts”.  It’s not sending out pleasant mental vibrations.  It’s about action.  Eudokia is benevolence.  It stresses the willingness to take steps toward bringing about the happy, desired end.  Paul is telling us that God has revealed His will to us because He wants to do everything possible to demonstrate His benevolence toward us.  It’s the bread and the fish parable again.  God didn’t just “think” about it.  He did something.  He did something so amazing, so powerful, so compelling that what He did can be examined, tested, analyzed and implemented and it works!  God’s benevolence became reality in the cross of Christ.  God changed everything.  He revealed His heart in the death of His Son.

Once again we are driven back to the Man with the Words.  “Lord, to whom shall we go?  You have words of eternal life” (John 6:68). 

Don’t come to God saying, “Oh, Father! What is Your plan for me?  What should I do about this or that?  Oh, I’m so confused.  I need your direction.”  Be like Peter in that moment of exquisite insight.  “Jesus, where else can I go but to you?  You have the words I need to understand life from the heavenly perspective.”  Count on God’s benevolence.  Be confident that He is directing your steps as you walk in obedience.  Do you need “Map Quest” directions for the journey you’re taking?  Or do you just need to trust that the God Who is filled with good will toward you is leading you in the dark? 

We have looked at many important words in this one verse.  Aren’t you overwhelmed by the lessons in just one verse?  Each word focuses on this thought:  His grace is sufficient.

Go live today in the confidence of God’s care for you.  One day at a time.