Our Personal Accountability
Romans 14:12
If you are not involved in a personal accountability relationship, then you are missing out on one of life’s greatest benefits. The Bible speaks often of this relationship: Jesus is accountable to the Father (John 8:28-29), the church is subject to Christ (Ephesians 5:24), and Paul felt answerable to the church at Antioch. (Acts 14:27) Sharing our weaknesses, successes, failures, and deepest longings has several important results.
In our accountability, we develop a sense of responsibility, which leads to better performance in whatever we do. Giving an account of ourselves to a brother or sister also promotes integrity and protects us from misusing our freedom as believers. What’s more, learning to examine ourselves and others guards us from unhealthy relationships. Most importantly, accountability is a tool in God’s hand for our spiritual maturity.
Because an accountability partner can see our blind spots and weaknesses, he or she is in a position to offer counsel, encouragement, or a loving rebuke. To choose the right person, we must look for someone who gives evidence of walking in the Spirit – a Spirit-filled believer will offer us godly wisdom based on Scripture. Also, we want an accountability partner who accepts us as we are, but possesses the courage to confront us when we are wrong. It is important to find someone who will be looking out for our best interest.
Where are we to find these partners? In the pew at church or among our friends. Begin to pray today that God will reveal an accountability partner to you.
Daily Devotions with Dr. Charles Stanlley, InTouch Ministries