LIVE INTENTIONALLY – 2

I went by the field of the lazy man, and by the vineyard of the man devoid of understanding; and there it was, all overgrown with thorns; its surface was covered with nettles; its stone wall was broken down. Proverbs 24:30-31

REFERENCE
Proverbs 24:30-34

In yesterday’s devotional guide, we established the thought that you can’t leave your life to chance by inactively participating in it; that you must be intentional or deliberate in the things you do, in order to get desired outcomes. A good, meaningful, purposeful, spiritual life, marriage, ministry, business or income, is a product of intentionality. It is a function of choice; a choice to have a better outcome of life.

Below are some vital areas you need to be intentional about in order to lead a rich satisfying life.

Firstly, your relationship with God – you need to be serious with your devotions, service and fellowship with God to have spiritual richness. This is the foundation for every other thing in life. Be intentional about developing your spirit man through intimacy with God (Mark 1:35, Proverbs 18:4).

Secondly, your general health or well-being – certain things we pray about would be needless if we adopt regular proper diet, exercise and good sleep. Your first step to being intentional about your health may just be to learn to say NO to starch, sugar and salt. Remember, God can’t do much with an unhealthy body (Proverbs 25:16, I Timothy 4:8).

Thirdly, marriage – a good marriage is not a function of luck; it answers to tried and tested principles. Activate love, show kindness, and easily forgive. Invest in activities that will strengthen your relationship. Even if you are unmarried, prepare for the kind of spouse you want, and the kind you want to be (Ephesians 5:22-33).

Fourthly, personal development – set daily reading goals, listen to something that informs or edifies you. Get training, and make deliberate investments in your mind. The brain is like muscles, if you don’t exercise it, it becomes weak. Find ways to improve yourself so you will be well sought after in your field of engagement (Proverbs 18:15, II Timothy 2:15).

Fifthly, finances – you can take hold of your financial future now. Prosperity is not a gift of the Holy Spirit; it is God’s gift to anyone who works the principles of finances – the laws of hard work, compound effect and the spiritual law of sowing and reaping. Cut spending, increase giving, learn to save and invest. Be intentional! (Proverbs 27:23, Luke 16:1-9, II Corinthians 9:6-10).

Finally, your eternal destiny – the most important thing you must be intentional about is where you will spend eternity. The concept of living intentionally is about creating a preferred tomorrow, but much more, a preferred after life. Nobody will get to heaven carelessly, everybody who makes it to heaven must deliberately prepare for it. (Mark 8:36, II Timothy 4:6-8).

I end with this quote by John Maxwell, “Nobody finishes well by accident.” Live intentionally!

ADDITIONAL STUDY
Luke 14:28

TO DO
Reflect on the points mentioned above, write down how you are doing in each area, alongside actionable steps you can take for improvement.

PHOTO QUOTE