Accountability?

This topic literally came up today while I was reading Facebook this morning.  A very dear friend and trusted Christian writer that I know posted a comment about Christian Accountability and how the Holy Spirit is her primary source of accountability, a very true statement.

I simply could not resist the opportunity to jump in and hi jack her thread (a little acebook humor) with some thoughts of my own.  Accountability is absolutely essential for any group, organization or society to function.  And Christian accountability is no different. We are all held accountable in one way or another. After all, accountability is simply being responsible for your own actions.

There are even accountability groups that specialize in helping people overcome issues like addiction, or a destructive behavioral tendency.  There is little doubt that as human beings, we find support, comfort, and motivation from others who are struggling with similar circumstances.

But the need for Christian Accountability is great.  Christ followers need support and comfort and often find this through Christian Accountability. Christ alone is sufficient enough to comfort and support us by the power of His Holy Spirit but too often it sees like we don’t fully rely on Him.  When we say our strength comes from the Lord, do we really mean it? Too many times I would say no.  We want to believe and have the faith to “fully rely on God” but too often we turn to others for help. It is part of the human condition.  And knowing this, God’s word speaks directly to our need for human interaction.

Typically, we all have someone in our lives that we trust. That is the first element of Christian Accountability. Finding someone that you can trust can be difficult.  Developing trust is a slow process and it takes time to develop and grow.  As people meet together to share, they begin to establish a rapport with one another.  Trust is first.

Second is the ability to listen.  Accountability is a two way street.  Active listening is essential to developing trust.  James 1:19 says, "My dear brothers, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry."  Sometimes being there to listen is enough to help your brother or sister through.

Third, we all need to have a non-judgmental attitude toward each other. That is not only essential to Christian Accountability but also to life in general.  Remember, we can be accepting of an individual while being discerning of the situation. Matthew 7:1-2 says, "Do not judge, or you too will be judged. For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you."

Fourth, caring for each other is essential.  So whether you choose to pick up a phone, sit over a lunch table, take the time to reach out to your brothers and sisters in Christ.  1 John 4:21 says, "And he has given us this command: Whoever loves God must also love his brother."

And finally, commit to being available for one another, it is so important.  The Bible says that God holds us accountable. Romans 14:12 says, "So then each of us shall give account of himself to God." This is personal accountability.  Christ followers are also accountable to one another.  1 Corinthians chapter 12, Christians are all part of the same body - the body of Christ - and each member needs or belongs to the other.  This Scripture suggests the importance of strong accountability between Believers. It is important for every Believer to have at least one other person in which to confide, pray with, listen to, and encourage.

So let me close with this, I posted this scripture on Facebook today.  Galatians 6:1-2 "Brothers, if someone is caught in a sin, you who are spiritual should restore him gently. But watch yourself, or you also may be tempted. Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ."

So Trust, Listen, Don’t Judge and Be Available.

Blessings, dave

Published on: Aug 10, 2011