Intentions and Preventions

Scripture Reading: Romans 1:13

Paul, as he says, “often intended” to go to Rome, but he had been prevented from doing so. We don’t always get to do the things we intend to do. God providentially allows us to be hindered from doing what we intend to do. Certainly, there are times when we ought to be stopped before we do something foolhardy. That’s not the case with Paul. He wanted to go to Rome to preach the gospel and see a harvest of souls. That is a good thing. A great desire. But, for reasons God only knows, Paul was kept from going to Rome.

In December of 2019, I was looking forward with great anticipation to ministry plans I had for 2020. I had multiple trips and conferences planned in South Asia. The first one happened. I went to India and Sri Lanka, conducting several pastor training meetings and some evangelistic efforts as well as preaching in many churches. But I returned home just before the “lock-down.” And ever since, while I have intended to go, I have thus far been prevented.

There’s a saying about “good intentions” that leaves the impression that good intentions don’t count unless they lead to actual actions. There is some truth there. Some people just use intentions as a justification for inaction. But there is another possibility. God in his providence, for his own reasons, chooses to close the doors on our intentions.

Paul eventually made it to Rome. I pray and trust I will soon make it back to South Asia.