Resolutions for Holiness: Jonathan Edwards' Self-Examination Diary

Jonathan Edwards (1703–1758), theologian and leader in the Great Awakening, began keeping a diary and writing his famous 70 Resolutions as a teenager. These documents became tools for pursuing godliness with extraordinary intensity.

From his Diary (December 1722):

“This day made the 35th Resolution… I fear they [my graces] are only such hypocritical outside affections… They do not seem so substantial… as I could wish.”

One of his well-known Resolutions:

“Resolved, to live with all my might, while I do live.”

How Journaling Fueled Edwards’ Spiritual Growth

Edwards treated his diary like a spiritual mirror. By regularly reviewing his Resolutions and recording his progress (or lack thereof), he practiced ruthless self-examination while depending wholly on God’s grace. This habit helped him:

- Identify areas of spiritual decline and quickly repent.
- Cultivate deeper affections for Christ and holiness.
- Maintain long-term consistency in Bible reading, prayer, and obedience.
- Turn personal struggles into fuel for revival preaching that impacted thousands.

His written discipline produced a life marked by both intellectual depth and fiery love for God.

Ready to pursue holiness with fresh resolve? Our journals include space for your own resolutions and weekly reflections.

Which resolution would you write today if you were starting fresh with Christ? Comment below.

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