by Sherelyn Mayberry
Synopsis: "I Am Resolved," a hymn written by Palmer Hartsough in 1896, challenges us—not only to obey the gospel, but to be more devoted disciples of the Lord.
In the hymn, "I Am Resolved" (#818, Psalms, Hymns, and Spiritual Songs), the lyricist speaks of being firmly determined to follow a course of action. This resolution involves a decision to walk worthy of God's calling and "fulfill every resolve for good and every work of faith" (2 Thess. 1:11, ESV). In Psalms 17:3, David says, "I have resolved that my mouth will not sin." How will I resolve to come to Jesus?
In Hezekiah's day, a decree was sent throughout Israel proclaiming that the people should all come to celebrate the Passover to the Lord. This observance had been neglected (2 Chron. 30:5). They needed to manifest resolve and return to God. Israel's sights had been on worldly delights and their focus needed to change to higher and nobler matters. Daniel also resolved that while he was in captivity, he would not defile himself with the king's choice food or wine, but he would be given vegetables and water (Dan. 1:8, 12). He set his mind on God, instead of on earthly things.
No other one is a worthy Savior to whom I should be faithful and true. Paul determined to know nothing except Jesus Christ and to proclaim only the testimony of God (1 Cor. 2:1-2). We should emulate Paul. Also, I must listen to the Lord's instructions and obey them, or like Israel, I will be cursed (Deut. 28:58-59). Finally, doing the Lord's will and following in His footsteps place me on the pathway to heaven. Whatever I do in word or deed, it will be done in the name of the Lord Jesus, for He is the living way (Col. 3:17).
Unlike Israel of old, I must not follow the path of sin, and instead, should turn and repent. They pursued sin as a "horse charging into the battle" (Jer. 8:6). Wicked friends from our past may find it strange that we no longer run with them in their sin (1 Pet. 4:4). Enemies may speak evil of us and tell lies about us (Psa. 41:5-6). Let us count the cost of discipleship and not commit rashly, and then afterward reconsider (Prov. 20:25). Being willing to forsake all that I possess to enter the kingdom, I will press forward with resolve (Lk. 14:25-26, 33).
Turning my ways in obedience to the law of the Lord, I can find joy and freedom in Christ (Psa. 119:59-60). I am no longer a slave to the Old Law or sin, but a son and thus an heir through God (Gal. 4:7). Jesus is the Great I AM and King of kings; so, like Nebuchadnezzar, we should recognize His dominion and supremacy (Dan. 4:34-35; 1 Tim. 6:15-16). His name is to be revered among all nations, so all should say of Him, "'I am the Lord,' declares the Lord God" (Ezek. 36:23). He is "Jesus, greatest, highest." Come to Him!
Author Bio: Sherelyn is the wife of Mark Mayberry who labors with the Adoue Street congregation in Alvin, TX as an evangelist and elder. She can be reached at sherelynmayberry@live.com.
