The Principle of the Path

Direction, not intention, determines destination. That equation is true for everyone, there is no escaping it. Obvious, isn’t it? It’s so obvious that when I first read it I felt a sense of profound dumbness. Think about it. The direction you are heading in ends somewhere, and it’s the direction you’re travelling in, not your intention, that will take you there. There is a final scene for each choice we make. It’s the principle of the path.

The direction you are currently traveling—relationally, financially, spiritually, and the list goes on and on—will determine where you end up in each of those respective arenas. This is true regardless of your goals, your dreams, your wishes, or your wants. The principle of the path trumps all those things. Your current direction will determine your destination.

So, will the direction you are heading in take you to where you want to go?

As it relates to small group leadership I often say that leading a small group is not just about serving, or doing ministry. It is about becoming like Jesus in the process. Jesus would not have been satisfied to see His disciples doing what He did and not becoming like who He was. When a student is fully trained he will be like his teacher (Luke 6:40). For us, small group leadership goes beyond leading a group; even leading it well. Our strong desire is that we all come to know God in deeper ways and are continually being transformed by His grace (2 Peter 3:18). That may be your intention, even your goal. But, the question to ask yourself is--does the path you are on lead you there?

Here are some other questions to think about:

1. Are there disconnects in your life?
2. Are there discrepancies between what you desire in your heart and what you are doing with your life?
3. Is there alignment between your intentions and your direction?

The principle of the path, the quote and three questions are from a book I read several months ago. It’s one of those rare books that I think about long after I’ve read it. It’s impacted my life in a big way and I find myself continually applying its content. It’s called “The Principle of the Path” by Andy Stanley. It’s an amazing book that I wish everyone would read. Oh, and there is another essential component to the equation “direction not intention determines destination”, but I will let you discover that for yourself when you read the book.

If you want to watch a brief video by Andy Stanley talking about this book, or to purchase the book from Amazon click here.