Resolute

Do you have any resolutions? As I was thinking through goals and what I want for the year ahead, I really struggled with making a resolution. It seems that we make these public declarations (for “accountability”) only to break them 3 weeks later. We decide on a target and move that direction until it’s inconvenient. Most people I talk to don’t actually expect to keep their resolutions.

The dictionary defines a resolution as “a firm decision to do or not do something.” Firm decision. Why do we so easily change our minds from a decision? How firm is it really? Why aren’t we surprised when we fail?

Daniel shows us what a firm decision truly looks like. When the king ordered that Daniel eat and drink what he considered unclean, Daniel made a resolution.

"But Daniel resolved that he would not defile himself with the king’s food, or with the wine that he drank." Daniel 1:8

Daniel made a decision, a firm decision. The Hebrew word has hints of strength, prevailing, and heart. He resolved not to defile himself. It wasn’t a wish, or a hope to maintain self-control; it was a decision – followed by a plan. If you read on in the chapter, Daniel went into strategic mode. He worked with the court steward to remove the offending food and drink and arranged to have healthful, clean foods available. He organized his environment, as much as he was able, to facilitate success. Failure wasn’t an option. It wasn’t even considered as a possibility.

What is my desired outcome for the year ahead? Are there resolutions that would be helpful in getting there? How serious am I and will it result in a plan? If I leave my goals to the mercy of my moment-to-moment motivation, I surely will fail.

I want to simplify this year. The goal is to be more efficient in my personal life to create more effectiveness in ministry. I have a target in mind. I’ve made a firm decision. Like Daniel, I best go make a plan.

What are your plans?

1 Response

  1. So true about wishy washy people & their "resolutions ". Everyone wants to lose weight, eat healthier, make more money. They forget to lean on God's strength, while having a plan for success. Continual prayer is necessary & allowing the Holy Spirit in to be our advocate. If we change the inside, all the other things fallinto place, according to His will. Love you tons, Jen

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