Why Good Deeds Matter More Than Good Intentions

Turning Faith Into Action in Everyday Life

Sometimes, we’re told that what’s in our hearts is what really matters—that if we mean well and have good intentions, that’s enough. But the truth is, the world needs more than just our secret hopes, our quiet thoughts, or even our feelings of holiness. It needs real action.

Think of it like this: If you see a hungry child, it’s not enough just to feel sorry for them or wish them well. What truly makes a difference is actually giving them food. Our actions in the world are what count, not just what we intend or feel inside. Even the best intentions, if left as just thoughts, don’t feed the hungry or help those in need. It’s what we do—how we live, the choices we make—that makes the world better.

The idea is that God, or goodness, asks for our hearts because our hearts drive our actions. But if we stop at feelings and never go beyond, we fall short. No one has a completely pure heart or perfect intentions all the time—we’re all human, after all. But even when our hearts are unsure or imperfect, we can still do good. We show our beliefs and values through the things we do, not just the things we feel.

Imagine if everyone only cared about being pure inside, but never acted on it. Nothing would ever change! The world is improved by honest, caring actions—by people who try, who help, who build, who reach out. Even if we’re uncertain or our motives are mixed, the act itself carries weight and meaning.

It’s tempting to think that being “spiritual” or “religious” is just about what we think or feel, but that’s only part of the story. True integrity means our actions match our values, and we find ways for both our hearts and our hands to work together. Like music played on real instruments, our faith and morality should be played out in real life, with real actions.

In short: It’s not enough to just mean well. The world needs people who do well. When our hearts and hands work together, that’s when true goodness and change happen.

Minister A Francine Green

August 2025