by Pastor John

Greetings to the LBC family and friends!

Jonathan Edwards Resolution #49
Resolved, that this never shall be, if I can help it.

This resolution simply builds on the previous resolution. It seems that Edwards is not only reaffirming the fact that he truly wants to fulfill the forty-eighth resolution but also to really emphasize the intensity of his desire to fulfill his desire to have a genuine interest in Christ. His goal is to never have to repent of being negligent as much as he can help it. You can be sure that he did everything he possibly could to help it.

I can’t help but see that this spirit of resolution is so lacking in people’s hearts today. People tend to give up so easily on their resolutions, revealing the soft-hearted and apathetic attitude toward so many pursuits in life. The corrupting cancer of comfort, convenience, and a casual lifestyle is preferred to the conviction of a costly, committed, Christ-centered pursuit of the cross and it is quite a stark contrast to the world when one sees such a person living in this way. It’s no surprise that many find it hard to believe that Jonathan Edwards was someone who really enjoyed life, equating his puritannical mindset to a joyless and heartless pursuit of moral knowledge.

It is only when one is resolute, with a face set like flint as Christ did on his way to Jerusalem, will such a person really live out the kind of Christian life that really shines bright. Is that the desire of your heart? Is that something you really set your mind to each day? Or do you follow the crowds in the resolute heart attitude of living for your own interests instead of the interests of Christ.

Do a little bit of heart inventory today and check to see if you really care to be interested in the things of Christ. Then ask somebody you trust to see what they would have to say honestly in their assessment of your Christian testimony. It might hurt but know that it will maybe really help you have a correct view toward the Christian life.

Have a great rest of the week!

In His grace,
Pastor John