It is not Intended

Let me share a quote from Dallas Willard's classic book Renovation of the Heart:

So the problem of spiritual transformation (the normal lack thereof) among those who identify themselves as Christians today is not that it is impossible or that effectual means to it are not available. The problem is that it is not intended. People do not see it and its value and decide to carry through with it. They do not decide to do the things Jesus did and said.

For too many churches and Christians the way of Jesus is not intended. 

I've spent countless hours with churches talking about all sorts of mission and formation initiatives. And the questions are all generally the same, "How do we do X?" My answer over the years has converged upon a single word: Intentionality. You must intend and decide to do this thing. You can't wish or want or plan or discuss or talk or vision. You must intend. 

The same goes for our personal lives. If we want, say, to grow in the fruit of the Spirit--from kindness to patience--desire is not enough. We must intend. There's a huge difference between wanting to be like Jesus and intending to be like Jesus.