As I write this, I am suffering. I have had a cold for a good week. It has left me tired and unmotivated. Also, it has me much less productive than I would like to be.
Though my suffering is relatively minor, it has me eager to experience a time when I am again feeling well.
This is a very small example, but it illustrates the motivation behind Edwards’s 63rd resolution. For, Edwards knew that, no matter his present suffering, the future glory of God will always far outweigh it. And it will not just outweigh it, but it magnifies it that much more.
Jonathan Edwards Resolution 63
Edwards’ Resolution #63 (as it was written)
On the supposition, that there never was to be but one individual in the world, at any one time, who was properly a complete Christian, in all respects of a right stamp, having Christianity always shining in its true luster, and appearing excellent and lovely, from whatever part and under whatever character viewed: Resolved, to act just as I would do, if I strove with all my might to be that one, who should live in my time. Jan. 14 and July 3, 1723.
Edwards’ Resolution #63 (in my modernized language)
Seek, above all else, to glorify God with all my heart as I am discipled.
When I see a date reference on one of Edwards’s resolutions, I start my study of it by digging into that time period in his diary. While doing that on this resolution, it’s clear that, in January of 1723, Romans 8 was hugely impactful to Edwards and his life.
As he took to assembling his diary notes from that time, he has a strong personal awakening. It is one where he greatest desires shift to desiring to work more fully for God.
Concerns of a Spiritual Life
Edwards no doubt had great concerns for his spiritual life. I don’t think theres is much doubting that. However, that may not have always been the case. It’s possible that Edwards had minimal true commitment to God and spiritual matters at one point in his life. Clearly, at the time of this resolution, he was stirred to make it stronger.
And Romans 8 has much to say on that topic. In Romans 8, the Apostle Paul addresses God’s everlasting love, present suffering, future glory, and more than conquerors. I was particularly interested in the likelihood that Romans 8 compelled him to a greater dedication of a spirit filled life. That’s because it was a sermon on Romans 8 that actually compelled me to begin this “project” that is present day 1Glories.
Edwards has become cognizant that he has lost a link of spiritual matters from forefathers. In his diary, Edwards notes that:
“It will be best when I find that I have lost any former ancient good motions or actions, to take notice of it, if I can remember them.”
When you’re suffering from a condition or situation, it’s difficult to see the approaching goodness that may come as a result. It’s also hard to focus on that, when overwhelmed by suffering. Edwards’ 63rd resolution offers some perspective.
The Struggle Between Spirit and Flesh is Real
Among the many reasons for foregoing spiritual tradition is a desire to indulge is new societal norms and standards. Another reason for such detraction is our propensity to focus fully on how we are suffering rather than our obligations to God or our zeal for doing God’s will.
In July of that year, Edwards observes that he spends too much attention to small and inconsequential matters.
Our human longings and human suffering enslaved us to trivial things. It keeps us from tending to kingdom matters.
Edwards recognized this. And so should we.Edwards recommitted his attention from suffering to Glory.
And so should we.