INTENT vs DEFAULT
Many live their lives by default, instead of by intent (Intentional). Living a life by default takes little to no effort at all. You simply live by the desires and dictates of the flesh. Here are some scriptures that show the default state of man:
Jeremiah 17:09 The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it? KJV
Proverbs 22:15 Children just naturally do silly, careless things, GNB (Good News Bible)
Galatians 5:19 What human nature does is quite plain. It shows itself in immoral, filthy, and indecent actions; GNB
Living a life of intent takes effort, determination, and vigilance. It is an ever-increasing process through study of the Word, Prayer, and Worship- with the help of the Holy Spirit.
It is difficult to go from a life of default to a life of intent. Likewise, it’s hard to go from a life of intent to a life by default. Thus, it becomes hard for a sinner to go to heaven, and hard for a believer to go to hell. Both take effort and determination to transform to the other. To continue in a default life, little to no effort or thought is necessary. However, to maintain a life of intent and purpose takes effort, determination, and consistency, with dependency on the Lord (without me you can do nothing). Any good that’s done by a life lived by default is just an event- not the norm. Also, any evil done by a life lived by intent, is just an event- not the norm or what’s practiced. Psalm 141:4 Let not my heart turn to any evil thing, to practice deeds of wickedness with men that work iniquity, nor let me eat of their delicacies. TLV (Tree of Life)
Proverbs 24:16 For the lovers of God may suffer adversity and stumble seven times, but they will continue to rise over and over again. But the unrighteous are brought down by just one calamity and will never be able to rise again. TPT(Passion)
The above scripture shows the effort put forth by the life of intent, causing it to triumph and continually rise over adversity. Conversely, a life of default does not put forth effort and is defeated by just one calamity.
God is the God of intent and purpose. His people must also be as He is. A life lived by default has no real purpose (good purpose). They do what they do just to have something to do- as long as it fulfills the works or lusts of the flesh (default). Proverbs 4:16 Wicked people cannot sleep unless they do wrong, and they are robbed of their sleep unless they make someone stumble. GW (God's Word)
A life of intent is a life that is full of joy, rejoicing, and peace.
Proverbs 29:6 …but the righteous doth sing and rejoice. KJV
Isaiah 26:3 You, LORD, give perfect peace to those who keep their purpose firm and put their trust in you. GNB (Good News Bible)
