Hartsough was born in 1844, in Redford, MI, the son of Wells
and Thankful Palmer Hartsough. His father was active in the Michigan
Baptist Convention. In 1856, the family moved to Plymouth, MI, and Palmer
attended both Kalamazoo College and Michigan State Normal. While in college, he
became interested in music and began teaching singing schools in rural areas
before becoming an itinerant music teacher throughout six surrounding states
over the following ten years.
Eventually, he settled down in Rock Island, Illinois, where
he opened a music studio and served as the music director for a local Baptist
church. During his time there, his writing ability caught the attention of the Fillmore
Brothers Publishing Company, which was based in Cincinnati and where he met James
Henry Fillmore. After about six years in Illinois, he moved to work with the
Fillmore brothers, providing the text for the music they wrote.
Some 10 years later, as a 62-year old, Hartsough became an
ordained Baptist minister, later serving in Michigan in that role until he
retired in 1927 at the age of 84. The hymn, “I Am Resolved,” tells us something
about Palmer: He wasn’t a malingerer, someone who was satisfied with marking
time. He examined himself and wasn’t afraid of a resolution that challenged his
direction – even if it was one that he’d spent decades pursuing.
He never married but was very close to his two sisters and
wrote them a weekly letter for many years. Upon his retirement in 1927, he
returned to Plymouth, MI, where he remained until his death at the age of 88 in
1932. His full life of ministry and continual service are a testament to what
he suggests in this very hymn—that he spent his days working for things to
come.
The song expresses the determination of a sinner who is now
resolved to follow Christ as his personal Savior. He or she is resolved to
leave his sins behind and follow Christ and the Word of God. That should
definitely be the goal for all Christians. It expresses the resolve that is
necessary to obey the gospel and be saved.
Enduringword.com: “Higher than I, because of His divine origin; higher, because of His perfect obedience; higher, because of His supreme sufferings; higher, because of his ascension to the right hand of power.” (Meyer)
Scripturesavvy.com: When we consider “greater than the heavens,” we are encouraged to ponder just how vast and amazing the universe is—the stars, planets, and galaxies that are so far beyond our reach. In declaring that God’s love surpasses these wonders, we realize that the source of unconditional love in our lives has the power to uplift and carry us through anything we face.
Godsbless.ing: These verses not only illuminate Peter’s unwavering faith but also offer timeless truths that resonate with believers across generations. They serve as a beacon of hope and a reminder of the exclusive role of Jesus as the path to eternal life. Just as Peter’s confession solidified his belief in Christ’s divine identity, modern believers are called to reaffirm their faith in Jesus as the sole source of salvation and spiritual fulfillment.
Enduringword.com: A new and living way: "This means that the sacrifice of Jesus is always fresh in the mind of God. Though it happened centuries ago it is not “stale.” It means that a living Jesus ushers us into the presence of God . . . Newell on a new and living way: “It is eternally as if just now He had borne our sins in His own body on the Tree, as if just now He had said, ‘It is finished,’ and the soldier had pierced His side and there had come forth blood and water. He is evermore freshly-slain” . . . “This is evidently an allusion to the blood of the victim newly shed, uncoagulated, and consequently proper to be use for sprinkling. The blood of the Jewish victims was fit for sacrificial purposes only so long as it was warm and fluid.” (Clarke)
Scripturesavvy.com: The latter part of the verse highlights the reality of opposition. Many may rise against us, be it through personal conflicts, emotional struggles, or broader societal issues. However, the assurance lies in knowing that God stands as a fortress for us. This understanding encourages us to trust in His strength rather than be deterred by the challenges we face. The essence of this verse is a deeply rooted acknowledgment of God’s intervention, which underscores His commitment to our well-being in times of trial.
Bibleref.com: Those who follow Godly wisdom can expect to learn the best way to live life . . . How does the Lord teach and guide believers? Jesus said He goes before His sheep and they follow Him. The apostle Peter indicates that Christ left us an example, so that we might follow in His steps. Jesus' life and complete submission to the Father, therefore, teaches and guides believers. Further, the Scriptures provide instruction so believers can be what God wants them to be and do what He wants them to do. "Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path." And, of course, the indwelling Holy Spirit guides and transforms believers.
Words from Roseavenue.org: “I will hasten – this decision is not something to be put off. The idea of hastening is that we are quick to respond. There are things that can happen which make life very uncertain. There is death, the Lord’s return, or even lost opportunities (the more you put off doing right, the more difficult it becomes the next time)
“Hasten glad and free – this is something we ought to gladly and freely do. Even though we want you to obey the gospel more than anything, YOU have to make up your mind to do it on your own. Anything else is less than sincere.
“Jesus, greatest, highest. The conclusion of this chorus notes that our Lord is above us. He is greater than we are and His ways are higher than ours.
“I will come to Thee. Salvation is about you making up your mind to do what He wants you to do. We have seen it is not about being coerced into obedience. It is about surrender and sacrifice. You giving yourself to your Lord for the rest of your life. And if you want heaven, that is what is expected.”
Be resolved to follow Christ and live for His Glory!
