Tom Barnard

“Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal

to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.”

Philippians 3:13, 14

Resolved, to live with all my might while I do live.

Resolved, never to lose one moment of time, but improve it in the most profitable way I possibly can.

Resolved, never to do anything which I should despise or think meanly of in another.

Resolved, never to do anything out of revenge.

Resolved, never to do anything which I should be afraid to do if it were the last hour of my life.

Jonathan Edwards

Resolutions take place mostly in January, right? Wrong. Resolutions can be made anytime, anywhere, and in any situation. Resolutions are commitments—promises we make to ourselves and to others. Resolutions are before-the-fact dreams that we expect to fulfill. I read somewhere that slightly more than 10% of those who make resolutions actually achieve them over time. No matter, goal setting is still numero uno in all businesses where the bottom line counts for something. Wisdom teaches that it is better to set goals and come up short than to set no goals at all.

Did you know that the church has been singing about resolutions for more than a hundred years? In 1896 Palmer Hartsough and James H. Fillmore came up with a gospel song that is still sung today in churches that use the hymnal. Here is the third stanza and chorus. Say it with me. Better yet, sing it.

“I am resolved to follow the Savior, Faithful and true each day,

Heed what He sayeth, do what He willeth; He is the living Way.

I will hasten to Him, Hasten so glad and free.

Jesus, Greatest, Highest, I will come to Thee.”

Heavenly Father, thank you for giving me a vision that challenges my faith. Thank you for directing me in paths of blessing. Thank you for sending friends to me who care deeply for me and hold me accountable for what I say and do. Thank you for helping me resolve to improve my life in areas of significance. Thank you for holding high the goal of eternal life. Thank you for sending your Holy Spirit to be my guide. Speak to my heart about new resolutions I should make. Then give me the strength to pursue them. In the Savior’s strong name I pray. Amen.