Resolutions or Resolved

Philippians 1:20 “I eagerly expect and hope that I will in no way be ashamed, but will have sufficient courage so that now as always Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death.”

The turn of the calendar causes us to reminisce about the year that’s complete and urges us to set goals and make resolutions in hopes of accomplishing something good.  It’s a new start and often that fills us with hope that this time we’ll accomplish our goals. Sadly, many of those resolutions fall by the wayside quickly.  Our determination wanes, our calendars and schedules fill up and we find that we just don’t have time and our once-bold enthusiasm just… isn’t.

Rather than make a resolution- an expression of a good intention, let’s be resolved- firm in purpose, determined. 

A resolution is stated.

But being resolved is lived out.

Which do we want our sons and daughters to choose?

Our world is continuing to unravel.  If we pause and look carefully, we have to admit, ‘end times’ doesn’t seem so far away.  How will our sons and daughters choose to live?  Will they make resolutions, or will they be resolved? One will only carry them as far as good intentions can, but will waver when tested…the other will help them stand for Christ in a dark and dying world.

Friends, now is the time to step up our prayer life and commit to pray with urgency, with hope, with fear of the Lord and with confidence that He will answer.

Philippians 1:20 says “I eagerly expect and hope that I will in no way be ashamed, but will have sufficient courage so that now as always Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death.”

This week, let’s pray through Philippians 1:20 and add in the name of our sons and/or daughters.  Let’s pray boldly that they would be resolved to stand for Jesus Christ no matter what.  There may come a day, soon, when they will be tested or asked if they belong to Jesus.  We need to pray that, above all, they want to exalt Christ in everything.

Take some time and jot Philippians 1:20 on a notecard or put it in your phone where you can look at it.  Make it a point to learn the verse and pray it over your family and loved ones today and in the week ahead.  Be resolved to stand firm for Christ and pray that your sons and daughters are as well.

Pray without ceasing.