Courageous the Movie has left a lasting impression on the men in our church who have seen it. A key part of the movie was the concept of “The Resolution”. This is the first of the articles that will explore each part of The Resolution and what it means for men.
The Resolution – Part 1
I DO solemnly resolve before God to take full responsibility for myself:
When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put the ways of childhood behind me. 1 Corinthians 13:11 NIV
Taking responsibility for yourself and taking accountability for your actions is often an undervalued personal virtue in the modern world. The scripture talks about us putting the childhood away. Part of a childlike approach to life is to deny guilt and to blame others. A Resolution Man will be both honest with themselves and others as well as being prepared to put right the things that have done wrong. The other part of being a man and not a child is about becoming responsible for themselves in terms of employment, self care and self growth.
The final part of this passage is about our thinking. Childlike thinking is often selfish, short term and often takes little consideration for the consequences of their actions. Resolution Men are thoughtful, considerate and measured as they embark on the journey of life. That does not mean they are not willing to be innovators, explorers and capable of feats of daring. It simply means that men will act and think in a new level of maturity and responsibility.
Good luck men with Part 1 of the Resolution. Let me know how you are travelling or have any ideas or thoughts that we can talk about as we all seek to grow as men of God.
Neil Stott