A vase full of good intentions

To him who knows to do good and does not do it, to him it is sin. – James 4:17

In a Peanuts cartoon by Charles Schulz, Marcie gives her schoolteacher some flowers. Not to be outdone, Peppermint Patty says to the teacher, "I thought about doing the same thing, Ma’am, but I never got around to it. Could you use a vase full of good intentions?"

We’ve all had intentions of doing something good but then failed to follow through. We may want to make a phone call to check up on a friend, or visit a sick neighbor, or write a note of encouragement to a loved one. But we don’t take the time.

Some people know that Jesus Christ is the only way to heaven, and they plan to trust in Him someday. Yet they keep putting it off. They may have good intentions, but that won’t bring salvation.

As Christians, we may say that we want to grow closer to the Lord, but somehow we don’t make the time to read the Word of God or to pray.

James has strong words about our problems of not taking action: "To him who knows to do good and does not do it, to him it is sin" (4:17).

Is there something you’ve been putting off? Write that card or letter today. Visit that sick friend. A vase full of good intentions never brightened anyone’s day. – Anne Cetas

"I do intend to do Your will"

Is what we often tell the Lord,

But what will honor Him the most

Are deeds of love to back our word. – D. De Haan

READ: James 4:13-17

Good intentions are no good until they are put into action.

The Bible in one year:

• Exodus 25-26

• Matthew 20:17-34