Simple Intention

The simple intention wills one thing, releasing the results of its labor completely to God, resting in him as each moment passes. It understands that there is no "perfect" and "permissable" will, for that is to say that God wills everything but only one of those things is "perfect". The simple intention understands that all of God's will is perfect, but that it has a choice to seek it or not. The simple intention knows that God may will several things all at the same time, all of them different but equal in perfection. This has no impact on divine sovereignty; it does not make us the arbiters of our own destinies as though we were our own gods. It is in fact the sovereignty of God that makes the choice possible at all. Our freedom is itself a proclamation of sovereignty. A simple intention holds itself open to hear the voice of God from many avenues, not just the inner voice. God speaks clearly through the most obvious means first, which usually consists of scripture, the church, our friends and our families. The Christian who fears missing the voice of God because it's too quiet to hear has missed something important: it is God's will for you to hear his voice. It is not intentionally hidden or unclear.

When we speak of the things God causes, permits or allows, we often employ the word "providence". Providence is a philosophical word. It is an abstraction. God is not abstract; he is our Father who loves us. His will is always an expression of his love. Our simple intention is an expression of obedience born of experience and trust. This is what St. Paul means when he says that God works all things for the good of those who love him and are called according to his purposes. We can trust that God's will can be perfect for everyone while remaining perfect for each of us.