You are worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honor and power; for You created all things, and by Your will they exist and were created. (Revelation 4:11—NIV)

There are seasons of life which lead to new resolves. The birth of a baby, the start of a new job, and the turning of a corner in life often lead to times of introspection and course-correcting resolutions. Typically, New Year’s resolutions come and go along with the new month’s picture on the calendar. I suspect that the germ of most of the good intentions at any new beginning is a prick of the conscience. An accounting has been made of failing performance which, if left unchecked, will lead to lost opportunity—at best, or disaster—at worst.

It takes a tremendous amount of effort to change a habit. The investment begins with a worthy resolve which must be followed by the formulation of a rational plan to implement the change (this is where the investment begins to show its cost). Changed behavior is not for the squeamish. The defeat of an old habit takes concentration, personal sacrifice, and endurance over the long haul.

Enduring is often the most difficult step. At this point the cost of our resolves may be felt by our loved ones. How much easier it is when they are on board with us. For this reason every resolve to change useless habits of life ought to be well thought out, the cost counted, and you must take every pain to assure that the purpose is worthy.

If a resolution is going to be successful for both time and eternity it must be directly built upon the bedrock of God’s intended purpose for every man. Without a clear sense of this worldview every lofty resolve of a man will inevitably crumble and dissolve and will measure the man. Without God, a man’s effectiveness at change is reducible to the level of his backbone of core beliefs, whatever they may be. Eternally effective resolution in man is the measure of the worthiness of God.

Our text purports the worldview that is essential for any resolve to see a succeeding year. By chapter four of Revelation, John has finished disclosing Jesus’ messages to the seven churches encouraging them to be refreshed in their resolve to serve God supremely in their corner of God’s vineyard and to overcome until the Lord calls them home. Verse one changes the scene to the court before the throne of God in Heaven. The "elders" (verse 10) surrounding the throne of God in the context are indicative of the overcoming, victorious, church age saints casting their crowns at the feet of God, for without Him the crowns would not have been won, they really are His. Their faithfulness was made possible by God’s faithfulness.

As they cast their crowns at His feet their united voices erupt with the sublime words of worship which are quoted above. Five characteristics for lasting resolution are resoundingly declared. First, God is Supreme—He is to have preeminence above all other competing voices clamoring for attention. Second, He is Lord—the Master, He deserves your utmost obedience. Third, He is Deserving—the only One worth exhausting your life’s stewardship of all He has given in order to return to Him all the glory, honor and power of your life. Fourth, He is the Creator—no one or thing has legitimate claim on your life but He. Finally, He is the Fountain of your life—you exist because He willed it! How humbling and astonishing! His worth is beyond compare and He deserves your submission now, for He will have it eventually.

Now review your resolves. Are they worthy of thought, sacrifice, commitment, and of His great Name? What steps of obedience would He have you to do in accordance with His will for your life? Trust and obey.