Being Accountable

Church bulletin blooper: "Irving Benson and Jessie Carter were married on October 24 in the church. So ends a friendship that began in their school days."

Quote: "No one does well what he doth against his will." --St Augustine of Hippo

"So then, each of us will give an account of himself before God" (Romans 14:12 NIV). "Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward" (Colossians 3:23-24 NIV)

To be "accountable" means to be liable or responsible for one's actions. Accountability seems to be in short supply these days. Some are unwilling to accept blame for their inappropriate and negligent actions while, at the same time, being quick to claim the credit for things that turn out well -- even when the credit rightly belongs to others. To be accountable, we must first accept personal responsibility for our actions.

When you accept responsibility, you automatically place yourself in a vulnerable position and risk catching the blame as well as the praise. But until you are willing to accept the risks of responsibility, you will not be willing to be held accountable. This is true in the secular professional world as well as in the work of the Lord.

What about you and me? Are we willing to step forward and be held accountable for our lives and the ministry challenges God has placed before us? When you walk the walk of faith, you will eagerly accept being held accountable before God. You will accept responsibility with an attitude of humility and without fear of failure, because you are dependent upon the Holy Spirit of God to guide you, sustain you, teach you, and strengthen you. It is to Him that you and I are ultimately accountable.

"For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may receive what (reward) is due him for the things done while in the body, whether good or bad" (2 Corinthians 5:10 NIV).

Until you conquer the fear of failure and its ensuing criticisms, it will be difficult to muster the courage to be what God wants you to be in your professional life or your spiritual life. As Christians, we should be the best employees and the best managers in the workplace, and the most faithful and inspirational workers and leaders in our churches and communities -- for the glory of our Lord. Practicing accountability now will ensure a joyous experience when we are held accountable at the judgment seat of Christ.

"When God's work is done in God's way for God's glory, it will never lack God's supply. God is not obligated to pay for our selfish schemes. He is obligated to support His ministry." --Hudson Taylor

Love, Jerry & Dotse