Not long ago, I started attending the Young Professional Ministry again. The very first service I joined back was all about aligning our lives with God’s purpose. And in the middle of the message, something simple yet striking was said—something I can’t seem to forget:
“Intention doesn’t determine destination. Direction does.”
That line hit me hard.
Because the truth is, I’ve had so many good intentions in life. I’ve intended to be more faithful, to trust God more, to choose peace over worry, to put Him first in everything. But when I look at where my heart or thoughts often go, I realize—intentions alone won’t take me where I want to be. It’s the direction I walk in daily that will. And the only way to know which direction to go is by staying close to the One who holds the map.
“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” — Psalm 119:105 (ESV)
This verse reminds me that God’s Word doesn’t always show the full road ahead, but it does give enough light for the next step. And if I keep walking in that light, day by day, I’ll eventually find myself where He wants me to be.
One thing I’ve learned and will carry with me moving forward is this: If I want to walk in the right direction, I have to dwell in God’s Word. Day and night. Again and again. The more I do, the more I recognize His voice and understand His will. Every time I pause to seek Him—especially in moments of anxiety or confusion—I feel a peace settle in my heart. It’s not just temporary comfort; it’s Him gently whispering the next step. Not always the full picture. Not always the answer I asked for. But just enough direction for today.
And over time, I’ve come to see the beauty in that. God may not always give us immediate answers, but He simplifies the noise in our hearts. He reminds us that nothing we crave from our worries—no imagined outcome or desired feeling—can truly satisfy us the way He can. Sometimes, all the thoughts I wrestle with lead me back to the same truth: God alone knows what I need, and He can give it right then and there.
That’s why I’ve reached a point where I can honestly tell the Lord, “I want nothing else—only what You want to happen.” Because if I’m the one calling the shots, it usually just leads to overthinking or anxiety. I’ve seen it in my own patterns. My earthly self is unreliable—but God is steady. His plans are always better. And simply being with Him is already the best place I could ever be.
So now, instead of clinging to my intentions, I want to intentionally follow His direction. I won’t get it right all the time. I know I’ll still wrestle with my thoughts or wander off-course. But God has already given me the map—His Word. And as long as I keep returning to it, I know I can find my way back. Because the true destination isn’t just a dream fulfilled or a goal achieved. It’s being with Him, walking in His presence.
If you’re in a season where your heart is full of intention but your path feels unclear—don’t be discouraged. You don’t need to have it all figured out. Just take the next faithful step in God’s direction. Open your Bible. Pause and pray. Let His Word light your path.
God isn’t asking for perfection—He’s asking for your heart and your trust. And as you walk with Him, even slowly, you’re still moving in the right direction.
You’re not lost.
You’re just learning how to follow the One who leads perfectly.
Faithfully,
Yani
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