The Weight of People’s Intentions
We often get caught up in what people say and do, but rarely pause to consider why they do it. Intentions…the unseen motivation behind every action carries more weight than most realize. It’s not just about what’s done; it’s about what’s meant.
We live in a world where words are polished, and actions are filtered through appearances. Behind the smiles and the good deeds, there’s a truth that only God can fully see… the heart’s intent.
“The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.” - 1 Samuel 16:7
Intentions matter more than impressions. You can do the “right thing” for the wrong reason, and it still carries the wrong spirit. Sometimes people give to be seen, love to be loved back, or serve because it benefits their image… not because it’s genuine.
Your intentions are the guide of your character. Even when you fall short, if your heart is pure, grace meets you there. When the motive is selfish or manipulative, even the best-looking actions rot from the inside out.
It’s not just about how others treat us, it’s also about checking our own hearts. Why do we post what we post? Why do we help who we help? Why do we forgive some but hold grudges against others? When we start asking those questions honestly, we uncover the real work God wants to do in us, not just behavior change, but heart transformation.
Good intentions don’t happen by accident. They are cultivated through self-awareness and surrender. Every day, we’re faced with choices that test what’s really in our hearts. When your intention is love, not validation, not recognition, not control, your actions will show.
So next time someone shows you who they are, don’t just look at their actions. Feel the energy behind it. When you look in the mirror, ask yourself:
“What’s my true intention right now?”
You can’t always see people’s hearts, but you can always protect your own.
Keep your motives pure, your actions honest, and your spirit aligned with God. When your intentions are right, you don’t have to chase outcomes, they start finding you.
Jeff