I was very encouraged by my reading in the Daily Office today. King Solomon is dedicating the temple and tells the people, 

Now it was in the heart of David my father to build a house for the name of the LORD, the God of Israel. But the LORD said to David my father, ‘Whereas it was in your heart to build a house for my name, you did well that it was in your heart. Nevertheless, you shall not build the house, but your son who shall be born to you shall build the house for my name...’ (1 Kings 8:17-19 ESV)

God may approve and reward what's in our hearts even if we fail to accomplish it. The Lord told David, "You did well!" What did he do that prompted the Lord's affirmation? He desired something. He had it in his heart to build a house for God's glory and renown. He wanted to do something specific for God that would result in his honor and praise and increased fame in all the earth. God was pleased with that passion. Yet, David did not accomplish the specifics of that desire. God did not permit it. God affirms and rewards his desire, yet He does not fulfill it. 

So, may our hearts be filled with God-given, God-affirming passions and intentions. And, as we put our hands to accomplish those desires, may we sense His smile even in our failures.