Determinations

In the vein of New Year's resolutions, some time ago, I wrote this list of determinations based upon Acts 20:28, 1 Tim. 4:16, and 2 Pet. 3:18. From these passages, I have derived these principles:

1. I am responsible for my own progress in holiness.

2. My own sanctification takes priority over ministry to others. 1Tim. 4:16 says that I will not be able to be an instrument of salvation to others if I do not take heed to myself.

3. Being is more important than doing

Therefore, in order to better "take heed" to myself, I have composed these determinations:

• I will say fewer prayers, but pray more.
• I will read the Bible, and allow myself to be read by the Bible.
• I will be less critical of others and more critical of myself
• I will be ruthless in the sin I see in myself; gracious in the sin I see in others.
• I will be ready for the worst and anticipate the best
• I will take the work that God has set before very seriously; I will not take myself seriously.
• I will be a better husband, father, grandfather, and friend; I will be an enemy of the world, the flesh, and the devil.
• I will declare war on pride, arrogance, conceit, and Phariseeism – beginning with my own.
• I will approach the work of God with the same attitude that David had in 2 Sam 24:24. I refuse to offer to the Lord that which costs me nothing.