We are one week into the New Year 2024. This is resolution season!
My newsfeed is abundant with advice on healthy eating, exercise, and getting our acts together in finances, health, relationships, etc. After one week, I wonder how many resolutions have already been abandoned.
I gave up on resolutions years ago. Most of mine never made it past the end of January. Some never made it even that far. Someone once remarked that I did not have much willpower. I disagree. My will has plenty of power – the problem lies in just where my “will” wants me to go. Left on its own my willpower will lead to my disadvantage, not my advantage.
That is why the verse in Philippians 1:6 means so much to me. “I am sure of this, that He who started a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” [HCSB]
The good work started in me (God’s good work of salvation) is empowered by God Himself. It does not rest (solely) on my willpower. If it did, I would definitely lose.
Of course, I have a part in this good work. That part is to cooperate with the Holy Spirit as He leads, teaches, reveals, and empowers. But as I do that, I have the promise of God (and His promises are always, ALWAYS, secure in His nature) … I have the promise of God that He will bring about my complete salvation.
For that, I am so very thankful!