Resolve to...

     In my reading this morning, this scripture jumped out to me, "Though you probe my heart and examine me at night, though you test me, you will find nothing; I have resolved that my mouth will not sin" (Psalm 17:3 NIV, Copyright 1985). I included the copyright date, since a search for this scripture with the word, "resolve," didn't come up. That word is key to me. How often do I want to do something, but I don't have the "resolve" to follow through on it? 

    Dictionary.com defines the word, "resolve," like this: to come to a definite or earnest decision about; determine (to do something). How often have I wanted to, would like to, know I need to...do something, but don't do it. So did I really want to do it? Or did I simply think it was a good idea, but didn't have the fortitude to follow through on it? For me, "resolve" must include the Holy Spirit's intervention, so I will choose what is best, not default to second best because it is simply easier. 

    It used to be said that electricity follows the path of least resistance, but according to the EC&M (Electrical Construction Maintenance Magazine) website, "Electricity does take low-resistance paths, including the one of least resistance. But it also takes every other path available to it" (ecmweb.com). Without resolve, my mouth is much like electricity, it takes the easiest path and any other path that is available to get the results that best suit me, not the Lord. 

    To keep electricity from going its own way, electricians must install appropriate "grounding" devices. Back to Dictionary.com for the definition of "grounding" which is interesting (obviously not related to electricity in this case): a basic knowledge of or training in a subject. That says to me, that if I am "grounded" in the Word of God, the Bible, I will have knowledge of the scriptures and training in the way God would have me go, so I don't seek the path of least resistance, but rather resolve to follow the path that God has for me. Not always the easiest avenue, but the one that diverts me around sin and helps me to determine to choose God's will and not my way.