Laced With Grace – Christian Devotions

God is Resolute

By Carol Graves January 9, 2018 Life, Reflection, Scripture

Resolute: having or showing a fixed, firm purpose; determined, resolved; unwavering; faithful

 Perhaps you are aware of the trend to choose a word for the new year. Recently I heard a spin on that trend. Some say there is a word we must remove from our vocabulary. What is that word? It is “should.” Rather than saying, “I should do this or that,” we must replace it with “I will…” As we begin a new year, often we make resolutions.  Perhaps we resolve to lose weight or start an exercise program.  There are resolutions concerning health, family, work, faith and on and on. Sadly, those resolutions may be forgotten as quickly as they are made. Our problem is we are not resolute.  We lack the unwavering determination to see our resolutions fulfilled.  The Scriptures are filled with resolutions that God has made to His children. God does not use the word “should” when He makes His promises. How could we trust God if His promises were prefaced with “I should?” When God makes a promise and says, “I will,” He does.  He resolves to keep His covenant of love and all that such a covenant encompasses – protection, salvation, forgiveness, faithfulness, rest, guidance and peace.

God said to Noah, “I will confirm my covenant with you.” Genesis 6:17-18

 To Abraham He said, “I will always be your God and the God of your descendants after you.” Genesis 17:7

 He made this promise to Jacob, “I will protect you wherever you go. I will not leave you until I have finished giving you everything I have promised you.” Genesis 28:15

To Moses He promised, “I will free you from your oppression and will rescue you from your slavery in Egypt. I will redeem you with a powerful arm and great acts of judgment.” Exodus 6:6

And to Solomon, God said, “Because your greatest desire is to help your people… I will certainly give you the wisdom and knowledge you requested. But I will also give you wealth, riches, and fame such as no other king has had before you or will ever have in the future!” 2 Chronicles 1:11-13

These are some of the “I will” promises He gives to us:

The Lord says, “I will guide you along the best pathway for your life.  I will advise you and watch over you.” Psalm 32:8

The Lord says, “I will rescue those who love me.  I will protect those who trust in my name. When they call on me, I will answer; I will be with them in trouble.  I will rescue and honor them. I will reward them with a long life and give them my salvation.” Psalm 91:14-16

“Come now, let’s settle this,” says the Lord. “Though your sins are like scarlet, I will make them as white as snow.  Though they are red like crimson, I will make them as white as wool.” Isaiah 1:18

 “I will be your God throughout your lifetime— until your hair is white with age. I made you, and I will care for you. I will carry you along and save you.” Isaiah 46:4

Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28

Perhaps you have made some resolutions for this year.  Rather than saying, “I should,” shift your focus from what you can do to what God can do. With God’s help say, “I will!” God’s fixed, firm purpose is to fill our lives with His fullness.  I praise God for He is resolute.

…“O Lord, you are a great and awesome God! You always fulfill your covenant and keep your promises of unfailing love to those who love you and obey your commands.  Daniel 9:4

 

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