Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed—not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence—continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you to will and to act according to his good purpose.  (Philippians 2:12-13).

Let’s look at what a resolution is. The English word "resolution" is the noun form of the verb "resolve." When you resolve to do something, you have made a resolution. The word "resolve" can also be a noun. A person who makes firm resolutions, and keeps them, is a person who possesses a good deal of resolve. The adjective form of the word is "resolute." A person who has resolve, one who makes and keeps firm resolutions, is a resolute person. Second, let me declare that I don’t make New Year’s Resolutions. Resolve is not rooted in the calendar. Indeed it is a good excuse for being reminded to make some changes. However, unless our resolve is the out-flowing of the power of the indwelling Holy Spirit, we will fail. Our reading today speaks to that truth.

Paul is very clear when he tells them what to do. They are to "work out" their own salvation, to fulfill their intended purpose of obedience to Christ. Paul is telling them to resolve to live the way Christians should live. But then he assures them that the power, strength, and even the will behind their resolve and their success come from God. It is our responsibility to exert the effort and develop the essential disciplines of the Christian life if we are to become more like Christ. But as we resolve to discipline ourselves and to diligently pursue holiness, we need to know that there is a deeper truth underlying and empowering our experience — the powerful reality that God is the one enabling, compelling, and willing all that takes place. And He does it all "for His good pleasure."

We should never be fooled into thinking our personal resolve is something that comes ultimately from ourselves. Our effort, our self-discipline, and our resolve to live a holy life are creations of God. He uses them, as they are guided by His Word and empowered by His Spirit, to accomplish His purpose. Once we understand that everything is of God, that everything is according to His purpose and that everything works together to bring Him glory, we should try to be certain that our personal resolutions are compatible with His revealed will. In short, we should be biblical in making personal resolutions and we should be encouraged, knowing that God will accomplish those things which please Him. And we should never expect God to enable us to keep our resolutions when they are frivolous or contrary to His revealed will.