While some run away from the word “accountability,” others embrace it as an opportunity. or those who run away, they do not want to take on the responsibility and ownership of something that is looking them square in the eyes. For others they seek this as a chance to make a change for the better, either for themselves or someone else. All areas of accountability relate to one’s actions or lack thereof.
What are you doing to make a change for the better and holding yourself accountable for? This could range from a multitude of things such as financial, spiritual, exercising or any another personal goal. It is easy to go through life just getting by and not trying to improve in any one area. It takes time and effort to get better in a specific area, and some take longer than others to achieve thei r goals. We live in a society that wants instant gratification and answers. Look how quickly you can obtain information and all the other things you can do with a smartphone.
One of the greatest sins of man is pride. It is easier to make excuses on why you should not be held accountable for something rather than taking responsibility. Often times the finger is pointed at someone or something else for what happened. Look at our government officials. When is the last time you have heard someone in a political position take responsibility for something that went wrong? They always point to the other party or the incumbent.
We also have the responsibility to be accountable to others around us. Whether this is to help one in who is physically in need or aiding with a spiritual struggle one is having. We are called to encourage one another toward love and good deeds. It is very tough for a single person to strive to become better in a struggling area. Having a person that you can see, hear, motivate and tell you how it is can assist in this process. It may be hard to open yourself up to intimate areas of your life, but the rewards and relationships can be very great!
These are just a few of the examples where one can be accountable for the different things they encounter. This covers the horizontal, but we are also accountable on the vertical as well. Ultimately the things that are done on the horizontal are being done either for or against God’s word; there is no gray area. As for the sheep and the goats, the things that are done to and for others are being done to God. You can’t fool God for your actions and motives for doing things. So then, each of us will give an account of ourselves to God (Romans 14:12).
We are held accountable for everything we do or do not do. It is easy to hold others accountable, but not ourselves. It is hard to admit you are wrong to others. Parents have a hard time admitting wrong to their children as they want to maintain that authoritative figure. It is okay to admit you are wrong to yourself and others. Be responsible for your own decisions, and accept responsibility.
At my place of work we are held accountable to one another and receive focused feedback. One of the mottos is to “See it! Own It! Solve It, and Do It!. You have the choice to decide what you want to take on in life and what we want to set aside for either someone else to do or let it resolve itself. Take action and responsibility for each other and yourself.