The Life-Changing Principle of Accountability
I reveled in the thought of my former fiancé losing a few jewels in his heavenly crown but the thought of my being in the same boat was another story.
The principle of accountability changed my life. I still remember the day someone explained it to me as I grieved my broken engagement.
“The way your fiancé has treated you is wrong,” said one of my professors. “God will hold him accountable for his attitude and actions.”
His words filled me with a sense of smug anticipation, but not for long. “
Yes, God will hold him accountable for what he’s done,” repeated the prof. “But He’ll hold you accountable for your attitude toward this young man.”
I reveled in the thought of my former fiancé losing a few jewels in his heavenly crown but the thought of my being in the same boat was another story. I tried to imagine myself fidgeting before God someday, scrambling to justify my resentment.
That thought unnerved me. “Well done, good and faithful servant,” met my liking far more. And so, I began to deal with my attitude, confessing the anger and bitterness and asking God to change my heart.
Thirty years later, the principle of accountability continues to challenge me. Anytime I feel slighted or hurt, I recall my professor’s wisdom based on Hebrews 4:13:
“Nothing in all creation is hidden from God. Everything is naked and exposed before his eyes, and he is the one to whom we are accountable.”
No matter how unfairly another person treats me, I’m responsible for my attitude. I can’t control what they do or say, but I can control how I respond…and I must.
If Christ lives in me, there’s no room for resentment or unforgiveness.
How about you?
How has the principle of accountability impacted your life?
Know you are loved,
Grace
