Is Maturing As a Christian Within the Realm of Possibility?

Do you desire to be an excellent husband or wife? Has that status eluded you? The prospect for becoming an excellent spouse is crucially linked to knowing and understanding the person to whom you are married, in addition to actually knowing yourself.

How do you get to know another person? The short answer is spending enough time together for personality quirks to become obvious. It’s not a matter of whether flaws exist, but if there is enough patience, love, and tolerance to accept what may never change.

Strengths and weaknesses are often the source for disagreements, but from these, an excellent relationship can be pursued. The Apostle Paul explains how excellence evolves: “Forgetting what is behind and straining for what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me.” 

Paul gives hope and meaning to accountability as he pursues excellence, as you can do.

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But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. 

~1 Peter 2:9 New International Version  

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What Is Actually Involved in Maturing As a Christian?

Learning is expansive and never-ending, provided the desire to grow and mature remains active. Dr. Michael DeBakey inferred that watching television was not advantageous to learning because most programming is designed to be entertaining.

I learned the definition for a disciple was to be a learner. Jesus began his ministry by calling disciples.

These men walked and talked with Jesus. They listened to his sermons and observed as he responded to those in need of healing. They listened to his critics. 

Accepting accountability for maturing includes stretching for excellence in your walk with Christ. Listen to the Apostle Paul: “Not that I have already obtained all of this or have been made perfect, but I press on to take hold of that for which Jesus took hold of me.” To press on means to actively grow in knowledge to discover the purpose and significance of Christ Jesus coming into your life.

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So we are not giving up. How could we! Even though on the outside it often looks like things are falling apart on us, on the inside, where God is making new life, not a day goes by without his unfolding grace. These hard times are small potatoes compared to the coming good times, the lavish celebration prepared for us. There’s far more here than meets the eye. The things we see now are here today, gone tomorrow. But the things we can’t see now will last forever. 

~2 Corinthians 4:16-18 The Message 

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Is Achieving Partial Excellence Acceptable?

After being discharged from the Air Force I enrolled at a Christian college to pursue a degree I believed was God’s plan and purpose for me. The student leadership included those who encouraged others to strive for excellence in their walk with Christ.

Defining excellence as perfection in thinking, beliefs, and actions was an appropriate objective for student leaders but was difficult to grasp for the student body. Seeking spiritual excellence implies the pursuit of maturity that impacts accountability in all areas of life.

Listen to the Apostle Paul’s struggle with yearning to be accountable to Christ. “I want to know Christ and the power of his resurrection and the fellowship of sharing in his suffering, becoming like him in his death.” Try to grasp the depth of his desire. Accountability depends on the desire to grow and mature as a believer in the Lord Jesus Christ.

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My dear children, I am writing this to you so that you will not sin. But if anyone does sin, we have an advocate who pleads our case before the Father. He is Jesus Christ, the one who is truly righteous. He himself is the sacrifice that atones for our sins, and not only for our sins but for the sins of all the world.

 ~1 John 2:1-2. New Living Translation  

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Is Keeping Your Thoughts Completely Pure Possible?

When my brother was twelve, he found a large sum of money outside a privately owned store. He informed the store owner if anyone could identify the cash amount, he would return it. Weeks later the money was never claimed, so it was my brother’s to keep.

My brother wanted to have a clear conscience. Listen to Romans 8:6. “If our minds are ruled by our desires, we will die. But if our minds are controlled by the Holy Spirit, we will have life and peace.” Jesus confirms: “It isn’t what’s on the outside that condemns a person, but what’s on the inside.”

It’s difficult to constantly have pure thoughts, but it’s a worthy goal that honors God. Romans 12:2 affirms that your mind can be renewed and made clean by the power of Christ within you. Shakespeare proclaimed, “To yourself be true," but this can be surpassed by committing yourself to being “faithful and true to Jesus Christ, who redeemed you.”

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Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life. Put away perversity from your mouth; keep corrupt talk far from your lips. 

~Proverbs 4:23-24 New International Version  

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What Gives Evidence of Your Redeemed Character?

Thoughts can affect your brain chemistry in significant ways. Someone confided that Sunday evening was the worst part of their week. Anticipating the challenges of their work schedule was emotionally draining even before the week began.

Making mistakes was out of the question for this person, so anything other than self-imposed excellence was unacceptable. These thoughts produced levels of anxiety that often seemed beyond containing. Aspiring for perfection is a worthy goal but indicates improvement is required.

While standing in the security line at the airport, a friend stepped on an expensive wedding ring.  He could have thought, “How fortunate!” but failure in character would be inexcusable. A frantic woman just ahead of him breathed a sigh of relief as she reclaimed her treasure she thought was lost forever.

By “doing unto others as you would have them do unto you,” you give evidence your character is being redeemed by the Lord Jesus Christ.                

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But now, this is what the Lord says – he  who created you…he who formed you… “Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine.” 

Isaiah 43:1 New International Version

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What Is a Formula for Change You Would Follow?

It’s important to believe that the capacity for excellence is available to believers in Christ Jesus. So what qualifies a person for excellence? The mindset for excellence depends on your desire for faith made possible through the presence of the Holy Spirit.

Striving for spiritual excellence may seem impossible due to the conflict of living up to the highest biblical standards and God’s grace and mercy. Becoming frustrated and irritable can appear to nullify the most ideal objectives and sabotage the best of intentions.

Would you like to know how to get back on track? Be pro-active in replacing negative thoughts and feelings these with these thoughts and feelings from Philippians 4:8: “Whatever is true and admirable, noble and lovely, pure and right, if anything is excellent and praiseworthy, think on these things.” Practice these truths until they become genuine.

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For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. 

~Ephesians 2:10 New International Version

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Are God's Standards Too Difficult to Honor?

Someone recently proclaimed, “I owe it to myself to get as much out of life as possible. I intend to live life to the fullest.” These words echoed a familiar mantra from two groups. The first group has little regard for accountability. Reminds me of the prodigal son.

In the second group, how they measure up is decided by God himself. Stop and think for a moment how you rank yourself as a member of the family of Jesus Christ. Consider how you serve, the courage you expend in seeking excellence in all areas of your life.

Revelation 2:4-5 refers to a group of Christians who compromised their faith. When they tried to infiltrate the church at Ephesus, their attempt was rejected. Those faithful to Christ believed a day of reckoning was coming for failing to uphold the values of Christ. Never compromise or turn loose of your love for Christ. 

In him there is peace and security.

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Whatever you do, work at it with [your whole being], as though you were working for the Lord God and not for people. Remember that the Lord will give you as a reward what he has kept for his people.

 ~Colossians 3:23-24 Good News Bible 

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What Is the Most Difficult Battle You Have to Fight?

Comparing yourself to other people is unavoidable. It’s a way to measure your achievements against what others have achieved. The negative effect of comparing yourself to others is discovering personal deficiencies that generate discouragement.

How important you are, should be determined by God’s grace and mercy. Is your importance measured by opportunities to serve God, by how much you’ve learned, or through the courage expended seeking excellence each day of your life? Being too tired and weary signals burnout.

Refuse to be defeated in your struggle against evil and temptation. In Eugene Peterson’s The Message, the Apostle John advanced this challenge: “You walked away from your first love. Why? What’s going on? Do you realize how far you’ve fallen? Turn back! Rediscover your early first love. There is no time to waste.” Never let go of reaching for excellence in your love for Christ Jesus. 

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Words from Saint Paul: “For I am the least of the apostles and do not even deserve to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God. But by the grace of God I am what I am, and his grace to me was not without effect. No, I worked harder than all of them – yet not I, but the grace of God that was with me.” 

~1 Corinthians 15:9-10 New International Version

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How Does Striving for Excellence Come into Being?

Accountability is an enduring summons that is met either with acceptance and enthusiasm or is pushed aside and rejected. Yes, it is possible to avoid responsibility for life’s choices and decisions whether  they’re positive or negative.

In truth, most people take advantage of opportunities that come their way. Pursuing excellence potentially promises an elevated meaning and purpose for life. Accountability strives to achieve the highest good that’s determined by your intelligence and other innate abilities.

For the Christian, this includes viewing life as an opportunity to be used by God to further his plan and purpose for your life. Pursuing excellence derives from believing you consistently do your best to achieve what’s possible. God is at work to give you an attitude of being worthy of the time you’re given in this life. When you are completely committed to Jesus Christ, striving for excellence is joyful.

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If you’ve gotten anything at all out of following Christ, if his love has made any difference in your life, if being in a community of the Spirit means anything to you, if you have a heart, if you care, then do me a favor: Agree with each other, love each other, be deep-spirited friends. 

~Philippians 2:1-2 The Message

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Should Anything Limit Striving for Accountability?

Do you think the word excellence has lost its appeal today as it applies to employment, education, morality, and ethics? Does excellence today identify what is only partially good and acceptable? Initially, loving God meant loving him without flaws.

When asked by his detractors, “What is the greatest commandment God gave us?” Jesus responded, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength and love your neighbor as yourself.”

Accountability is dependent on striving for excellence regardless of  your limitations. Galatians 5:22-23 offers encouragement: “For the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.” These attributes empower you to strive for the highest standard that pleases God while enriching your soul.

So be receptive as the Holy Spirit performs his transforming work in you.                   

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In a race, everyone runs but only one person gets first prize. So run your race to win. To win the contest, you must deny yourself many things that would keep you from doing your best. 

~1 Corinthians 9: 24-25a The Living Bible

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Have You Ever Thought of Yourself as Being Excellent?

When you think of something being defined as excellent, does it include superior quality like an excellent dinner that was outstanding? Have you thought of yourself as achieving excellence in any area of your personal life? Perhaps you were a 4.0 honor student or better.

Alexander the Great was an excellent military strategist. Herod the Great gained distinction for building an impressive temple in Jerusalem. Both of these famous leaders, however, had a dark side for which they had to be accountable.

Being accountable includes giving a personal evaluation of how you’ve lived by doing what was required. Jesus experienced deep sorrow and anxious moments in the Garden of Gethsemane, but when it came time to do what God sent him to accomplish, he gave himself completely. 

What does God expect of you that will prompt you to give an excellent report of yourself?                  

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You yourself must be an example to [others] of good deeds of every kind. Let everything you do reflect your love of the truth and the fact that you are in dead earnest about it. Your conversation should be so sensible and logical that anyone who wants to argue will be ashamed … because there won’t be anything to criticize in anything you say. 

Titus 2:7-8 The Living Bible 

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Is Accountability Entirely Worthwhile?

In a letter to Aristotle, Alexander the Great, wrote, “I would rather excel in the knowledge of what is excellent than in the extent of my personal power and dominion.” Alexander had conquered a large extent of the known world by 323 BC when he died at age 32.

Aristotle had recognized Alexander’s potential as a youngster and instilled in him that he was accountable for his giftedness and destiny. Accountability includes striving for the highest level of excellence determined by your intelligence and other innate abilities.

Accountability acknowledges giftedness and strives to use it for the benefit of others. Jesus was accountable to God his Father for emptying himself of all privileges to be a servant so you could have abundant life. Think then of what Jesus gave up and what you have gained by his sacrifice. Jesus never faltered in his purpose to serve God his Father. Can you adequately express your gratitude to him?

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There is nothing that can be hid from God; everything in all creation is exposed and lies open before his eyes. And it is to him that we must all give an account of ourselves. 

~Hebrews 4:13 Good News Bible

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Are There Limits to Our Accountability?

Accepting accountability evolves and changes, which in turn presents a continuous challenge on how to cope with problems that must be faced. Actually, we try to keep problems suppressed until a crisis or stressful event threatens exposure.

At this point self-regulation, or the ability to manage your emotions, behavior and speech, may be pushed to a breaking point. You are aware of unhealthy coping strategies that are triggered by unexpected changes. Healthy self-regulation demands self-control.

Accountability is being aware that every decision has a reality factor and you are responsible for that reality. Self-regulation made strong by God’s presence is a powerful coping strategy. Remember, God cares of his people, so he makes certain you know he is by your side. 

These are  wonderful words of encouragement and help. Praise God from whom all blessings flow!        

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Like a city whose walls are broken through is a person who lacks self-control.

~Proverbs 25:28 New International Version

 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Against such things there is no law.

~Galatians 5:22-23 New International Version

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Should God Always Be Consulted for Guidance?

Coping with the problems of life is not a matter of if there will be issues, but how they are resolved. All children, as well as adults, will have to face the problems of life. Children learn from their parents that problems are a normal part of human existence.

Constructively coping with problems includes facing what needs to be done to resolve issues. Courage derives from realizing accountability is associated with how problems are managed. Self-regulation is the key to success or failure.

Being accountable admits that failure is a good teacher. Facing life’s difficulties takes into consideration that being corrected is necessary for making appropriate choices. Impulsively making an important choice while neglecting to consult God for guidance is a recipe for failure. Consulting God for guidance is a step of faith and trust as well as a wonderful privilege.

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Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart. 

~Psalm 37:4 New International Version        

“So do not fear, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”

~Isaiah 41:10 New International Version

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Why Should You Always Do What Is Good and Right?

The way courage fits in with being accountable is portrayed as modern day heroes who will spontaneously rescue someone in trouble. The majority of these heroes are not seeking fame. Instead, these acts of bravery are a normal human response to dangerous situations.

Does accountability have to be taught to us? Accountability is governed by the strength of courage that is closely bound up with a person’s moral and spiritual values. The indwelling Holy Spirit strengthens the will to do what is good and right.

Doing what is good and right simply because it is good and right is a simple definition of accountability. However it still requires courage to overcome any cause of hesitation.

Courage derives from confidence that the Lord God is your defense and power and his strength is your support and security. With this solid underpinning, it is possible to face whatever life presents. 

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Don’t shuffle along, eyes to the ground, absorbed with the things right in front of you. Look up, and be alert to what is going on around Christ – that’s where the action is. See things from his perspective.

~Colossians 3:2 The Message

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What Are the Attributes That Define Character?

Accountability and responsibility are both firmly bound up in faith but can be ignored if strength of character is deficient. Hosea 8:7 reminds us if we sow the wind we will reap the whirlwind by rejecting what God has called us to be with our lives.

This truth is spelled out by Samuel Smiles: “Sow a thought, and you reap an act; Sow an act, and you reap a habit; Sow a habit, and you reap a character; Sow a character, and you reap a destiny.” His poem implies accountability is unavoidable.

Our character and destiny are measured by courage, accountability,  and faith. Personal growth in faith and trust clears the way for walking humbly before God. Micah 6:8 is instructive. “The Lord has told us what he requires, and that is to do what is just, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with God.” The Lord God empowers you to be accountable as you trust in him. 

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For what our human nature wants is opposed to what the Spirit wants, and what the Spirit wants is opposed to what our human nature wants. These two are enemies, and this means that you cannot do what you want to do.

~Galatians 5:17 Good News Bible

 Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.

~Matthew 26:41 New International Version

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How Difficult Is It to Be Strong and Courageous?

Is courage the primary emotional and moral factor for determining accountability? It might be proposed that fear is main focal point for taking responsibility to do what is required. However, courage to take action may spring forth from God’s prompting.

In the movie The Red Badge of Courage, Audie Murphy portrayed a man consumed by fear who ran away from battle during the Civil War. He hid his betrayal by pretending to be wounded. Courage later helped him overcome his fear, betrayal, and lies.

Fear is normal, but it doesn’t have to prevent a person from doing what is right. Deuteronomy 31:6 presents a challenge: “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified, for the Lord God goes with you; he will never leave nor forsake you.” These words encourage you to be accountable to God for the faith he has given you by continuing to remain true and loyal to him.

No temptation has seized you except what in common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so you can stand up under it. 

~1 Corinthians 10:13 New International Version

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What Is Required for Being Willing to Show Mercy?

Each person will at some point be called upon to act courageously in defense of personal values or for protection of family and friends. Courage is also associated with defending what is socially right and just.

Remember this story? Robbers beat a man almost to death and left him by the roadside. Two religious leaders passed by, looked at the man, and walked on. Finally, a Good Samaritan stopped and compassionately attended to the man’s wounds, saved his life and provided continuing care.

Did that act of mercy take courage? This man prioritized his ethics and humanity and acted with compassion. What evidently inspired him to care for this dying man was his need for a clear conscience and being free of shame and guilt. You can be committed to the Apostle Paul’s directive from 1 Corinthians 16:13-14: “Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous and strong. Show God’s love in everything you do.”

Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly beloved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.

~Colossians 3:12  New International Version

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What Rewards Are You Expecting from God?

What’s so difficult about being a servant or being thought of as a servant is the negative identity that is associated with being a servant to others. It creates an attitude of thinking that you do not measure up socially. Yet God calls each Christian to serve others.

It’s difficult to believe each person is accountable for the quality of service rendered to God and others. Quality of service refers to knowing what you do is for God’s personal glory and not your own glory. So what makes serving God and others so special?

Listen to Galatians 6:9. “Let us not become tired or weary in doing good, for at the proper time, we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” The harvest is the reward of experiencing God’s favor and having your life enriched with a godly purpose where you lay up treasure in heaven that makes you worthy to be invited to enter God’s Kingdom.

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Blessed is the one who remains faithful when tempted, because having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life which God has promised to those who love him.

~James 1:12 New International Version/Good News Bible

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What Is Objectionable About Being a Servant?

Whether work is perceived as fulfilling and purposeful or as drudgery and entrapment is a choice. Fellow employees and supervisors may be viewed with contempt and resentment or as individuals God has placed in my life to teach me how to be a servant.

The idea of being a servant may be hard to swallow because both our goal and attitude are to be an authority figure. What isn’t given any honest consideration is how do I measure up as a servant? The answer depends on how I personally define servanthood.

Servanthood has traditionally carried the overtone of being under the authority of others. From a Christian’s viewpoint, being a servant of God is the most blessed position a person could hope to attain. 

So your mindset will be that as I serve God with humility and thanksgiving, I am privileged to also be available to serve others. God will supply you with patience and humility to be a servant to others.

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You were chosen to be free. ... Use it as an opportunity to serve each other with love.

~Galatians 5:13 Contemporary English Version

For God is not unjust; he will not forget your work and the love you have shown him as you have helped his people and continue to help them. 

~Hebrews 6:10 New International Version 

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What Makes Serving Others Joyful?

The idea of being a servant has fallen out of favor today regardless of social status. Being served by others is more acceptable, for it conveys authority, power, and privilege. However we do serve others, whether at home, work, or play.

Serving can be a joyful experience that delights the heart and soul, or it can produce an attitude of resentment and contempt. Whichever attitude is present depends on self-perception. Do I see myself as above serving others because entitlement confers on me the right to be served?

Jesus made it absolutely clear he came into the world to serve and to give his life to redeem mankind. Jesus obviously saw a higher purpose in serving others, and that higher purpose was to please God. Think of being a servant as laying up treasures in heaven where the rewards are eternal. If being a servant was preferable to Jesus, then it must be good and honorable. 

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And the Lord’s servant must not be quarrelsome but must be kind to everyone, able to teach, not resentful. 

~2 Timothy 2:24 New International Version

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What Draws People Closer in a Relationship?

Whatever shapes a relationship and determines its success or failure is directly attributed to words that are spoken in conjunction with a positive or negative mood. It’s possible to temporarily disguise feelings and thoughts, but eventually and predictably, the truth will be revealed.

Some people would never disguise their thoughts or mood even as they realize these thoughts and feelings, if expressed, would damage the relationship. While this approach hides dangerous pent-up emotions, they contribute to a sad, depressed mood that pushes people away.

Conversely, feelings which are joyful, confident, and peaceful exemplify a mood of contentment that draws people closer to each other. 

In life we have a choice of being a peacemaker or an alienator, to expect and live with hope for the future or become engulfed in negative thoughts and moods. Jesus said, “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called God’s own people.” What a blessed position to share with those you love!           

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Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.

~1 Thessalonians 5:16 New International Version

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How Does Expressing Kindness Affect Acceptance?

Being accepted is one of the highest achievements mankind strives for throughout life. Acceptance depends on several contributing facts such as character, social skills, education, and a multitude of other factors. 

We’re born into a family where acceptance should be a given, but one child can be more favored than others, depending on gender and birth order. While children are not overtly rejected, one may be more favored.

The content of all emotional attachments is communicated by affection and joyful feelings expressed toward each child. Your feelings, whether positive or negative, represent acceptance or rejection.

Proverbs 11:12 confirms: “It’s foolish to speak scornfully of others.” The word 'scornful' describes an attitude of judgment and a hateful mood. Listen to Proverbs 11:17. “You do yourself a favor when you are kind….”  Remember, wise people think before speaking, and being kind promotes acceptance. Praise God for the kindness he demonstrates to us.

It is a  treasure to cherish.   

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So in Christ Jesus all of you are children of God through faith, for all of you who were baptized have clothed yourself with Christ.

~Galatians 3:26 Williams – New Testament in the Language of the People

Now therefore there is no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.

~Romans 8:1 Williams – New Testament in the Language of the People

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How Does Our Mood Affect What We Say?

The words we say to another person in stressful situations can permanently damage a relationship. Words reflect moods such as happy, joyful, sad, or angry. These feelings are identifiable by the tone of voice and facial expressions.

Mistakes are often accompanied by a mood such as anger or fear. Words spoken carelessly while in a particular mood may reveal what is actually factual but, once spoken, are forever imprinted in the mind of the one who hears.

Regardless of your mood, you are accountable for every word spoken. 

So, it’s not always appropriate to say what we think and feel. While mistakes are forgivable, they can have a permanent, negative impact. Proverbs 10:17 are words for the wise: “People who listen when they are corrected will live, but those who will not admit that they are wrong are on a dangerous pathway.” God’s word is the pathway to life and peace.

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Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.

~Psalm 139:23-24 New International Version

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Are We Responsible for Learning from Mistakes?

It is amazing how past mistakes shape what we presently choose. Corrected mistakes can be responsible for choices that paved the way for success and happiness. What ultimately mattered is how accountability influenced a final outcome.

In our society divorce has come to be an acceptable solution for a bad marriage. What’s interesting to note is over 60% of those entering a second marriage fail to make a better choice. Is this a by-product of failing to learn from previous mistakes?

You are responsible for learning from mistakes and applying new knowledge to current situations. How does God feel observing his people making poor choices in the face of unmistakable warning signs? Proverbs 27:12 makes this observation: “Sensible people will see trouble coming and avoid it, but an unthinking person will walk right into it and later regret it.” 

Listen to the still small voice of God as he speaks to you now.

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Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves. Do you not realize that Christ Jesus is in you – unless, of course, you fail the test?

~2 Corinthians 13:5 New International Version

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How Do We Learn from Past Mistakes?

Have you known someone who refused to take responsibility to do a special task out of fear of making a mistake that they assumed would be unforgivable? Mistakes are a vital component to learning in addition to being a primary source for understanding what to avoid in the future.

Learning from mistakes is linked to accountability, which in turn is connected to maturing throughout life. In the American Civil War of the 1860’s Robert E. Lee, commander of the Southern forces, made a choice that led to his defeat at Gettysburg.

For Lee, it was a lesson too late for learning, but for most people it is not too late to learn from bad choices. 

God promises if you accept accountability, he will give you knowledge and understanding that enable you to change your life’s pathway. Accountability means learning from mistakes, taking responsibility for them, and then applying corrective action to ensure they will not be repeated.  

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Whoever conceals their sins will not prosper, but the one who confesses and renounces them finds mercy.

~Proverbs 28:13 New International Version

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Does God Use Past Mistakes as Guides for the Future?

Making a mistake is unavoidable, yet essential for maturing. Acquiring knowledge takes place in formal education, and experience serves as a valuable learning tool. Accountability acknowledges mistakes and poor judgment and then implements corrections.

Mistakes are forgivable, provided they serve as teaching moments. Each person is accountable for gaining knowledge and being sure that what is learned is valuable. Proverbs 15:31 defines a wise person: “If you pay attention when you are corrected, you are wise”.

Edward Wilson was one of Harvard University’s prestigious professors and known for his research on ants. He accepted criticism by putting into action suggestions from his critics that resulted in his greatest discoveries. Knowledge and wisdom can be late in coming, but where there is dedication to learning, God will  bestow his grace and blessings on that person. 

You can do great things through Christ Jesus who gives you strength and courage to press on toward accomplishing what he sets before you to do.

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Take a lesson from the ants…Learn from their ways and be wise! For though they have no leader or ruler, they store up their food during the summer, getting ready for winter… Listen! Wisdom is calling out. Reason is making [itself known].  

~Proverbs 6:6-8, 8:1 The Living Bible/Good News Bible

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What Are the Consequences for Unacceptable Behavior?

How often have you heard someone say in frustration or despair, “I just want to be myself and be accepted?” In truth, you must restrain the impulse to act with unacceptable behavior and objectionable speech, for this is the pathway to rejection.

Understanding accountability and applying it to yourself is a tremendous task, but the majority of people will in time mature. The message is clear: “You can be yourself but within specified boundaries.”

You have an expressive self that is part of your identity and an internal core that’s also yearning for exposure. Restraining is necessary to prevent unwanted negative consequences. Accountability is certain, so your objective is to please God with your whole self. Proverbs 16:23 offers wise counsel. “Intelligent people think before they speak, so what they say is then more persuasive.” 

In Jesus you have your best example for who you can be and what you can do.

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Now it is required that those who have been given a trust must prove faithful.

~1 Corinthians 4:2 New International Version

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Are Your Expectations Realistic?

The health of a relationship is as dependent on words spoken as it is on actual conduct. There are instances where behavior speaks louder than words. Your behavior gives evidence that words either were spoken in truth or stand as a contradiction to truth and honor.

Character and your identity cannot be separated from the quality of your vocabulary. An old cliché stands in judgment for speaking without thinking. Perhaps you’ve heard it. “Speak in haste and repent in leisure.” So...

Have you regretted speaking in anger or thoughtlessness?

Accepting accountability has positive rewards for those who permit it to guard their lives. Proverbs 2:7 affirms God’s response to those who are committed to being accountable: “He holds victory in store for the upright; He is a shield to those whose walk is blameless, for he guards the course of the just and protects the way of the faithful.” What does God expect from you and me?

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Here is the new agreement I, the Lord, will make with my people…. “I will write my laws on their hearts and minds. I will be their God and they will be my people.”

~Jeremiah 31:33 Contemporary English Version

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Does Accountability Include Words Spoken and How We Live?

Accountability is difficult to feel comfortable with because everyone has acted irresponsibly. Who hasn’t spoken disparagingly about another person’s behavior or character when it was unwarranted? It’s amazing what words can be spoken in moments of reckless intent.

It’s frightening to realize we will be held accountable for every word we speak. In Psalm 141:3 David recognized the implications of reckless speech: “Set a guard over my mouth, O Lord: keep watch over the door to my lips. Let not my heart be drawn to what is evil.”

One of the Ten Commandments specifically states, “You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor or accuse anyone falsely.” David was aware that he would be held accountable for the words he spoke and for living an honorable life before God. “May the words of my mouth and the meditations of my heart be pleasing in your sight, O Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer.” That’s a request God will honor.

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For we must all appear before the judgement seat of Christ, so that each of us may receive what is due us for the things done while in the body, whether good or bad. 

~2 Corinthians 5:10 New International Version

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How Does Correcting a Child's Behavior Affect Self-esteem?

What is accountability and how does it rank in importance to the development of character and self-esteem? Parents want their children to have adequate self-esteem so they will be able to achieve to the level of their intellectual and social capabilities.

Critical to being accountable is acquiring emotional and social maturity appropriate to each stage of development. Listen to Proverbs 22:6: “Teach children how to live, to do what is right and good in all situations, and it will be their model for life.” 

Some parents mistakenly believe correcting children’s behavior and mistakes will damage their self-esteem. However failure to correct them will send children into the world ill-prepared for success. The world will not coddle a person who refuses to comply with society’s rules for living. 

It’s imperative to teach your children God’s way for living as they can grasp it’s meaning and purpose. Then be their role model. 

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For in the gospel a righteousness from God is revealed, a righteousness that is by faith from first to last, just as it is written: “The righteous shall live by faith.”

~Romans 1:17 New International Version

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