Have you ever set a goal and struggled to achieve it? We’ve all been there. Sometimes, all we need is someone to keep us on track. Today, let’s explore how accountability can make a difference in our lives. More importantly, let’s consider what happens when we make God our ultimate accountability partner.
[READ ALSO: Walking With God: Know the 7’Cs of How to Walk with God]
Table of Contents
The Power of Accountability
Accountability is a powerful tool. It keeps us focused and committed. When someone else is aware of our goals, we’re more likely to follow through. But why is that?
Let me share a story with you. Meet John, who wanted to run a marathon. He started training but often skipped his workouts. Then he met Alex, an experienced runner. Alex offered to train with him and check in daily.
With Alex by his side, John felt a new sense of responsibility. He didn’t want to disappoint his friend. They ran together, shared tips, and encouraged each other. Before long, John’s endurance improved. He completed the marathon, all thanks to having an accountability partner.
Okay, let me throw the question to you. Have you ever been accountable to someone for anything? If yes, can you compare it to when you were just doing that thing by yourself?
I hope you became more serious and committed, especially once you remember that you must explain to the person you are accountable to how or why you didn’t do what you were supposed to do.
My dear reader, you and I know that this really works. Why can’t someone easily quit pornography or some other captivating sin until he has gotten himself an accountability partner? This is real and true. Accountability works!
Why It Worked
- Overseer: It was obvious to John that someone very real was observing him, watching over his training. “Alex offered to train with him and check in daily.”
- Sight: “He didn’t want to disappoint his friend,” or in other words, he wanted to please his friend.
- Commitment: Knowing someone was counting on him made John more committed. “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” — Proverbs 27:17
- Support: Alex provided guidance and motivation.
- Consistency: Regular check-ins kept John on track.
You can further analyze the story to dig out reasons why being accountable worked for John.
Now, let’s take it higher.
What If God Is Your Accountability Partner?
Now, imagine if we apply this concept to our spiritual lives. What if we make God our accountability partner? That would be great and powerful, but it presents a challenging issue that we can’t deny: God is invisible. He can’t be seen. This is the first problem to solve before we can truly make God someone to whom we are accountable. So, how can we solve this? Faith! Faith! Faith!
Hebrews 11:6 states:
“But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is…”
Seeing God as a Real and Deliberate Partner
God is always with us, but do we live like we truly believe it? If we consciously acknowledge His presence daily, our actions might change. We might think twice before making certain choices.
What Does It Mean To Be Accountable To God?
Being accountable to God means recognizing that we are ultimately responsible to Him for all our actions, thoughts, and decisions. This accountability stems from the belief that God is very real, and is omnipresent and omniscient, seeing not only our outward behaviors but also the intentions of our hearts.
It involves living with the constant awareness that nothing is hidden from God’s sight and that one day we will stand before Him to give an account of our lives. This understanding influences believers to align their lives with God’s moral and ethical standards as outlined in the scriptures. It encourages a life of integrity, obedience, and submission to God’s will, where one actively seeks to embody virtues like love, kindness, and justice.
Moreover, being accountable to God profoundly affects how we interact with others and steward the resources entrusted to us. It extends to treating others with compassion, respect, and fairness, understanding that our relationships are a significant aspect of our responsibility before God.
This accountability also involves utilizing our gifts, time, and opportunities in ways that honor God and contribute positively to the community around us. Living with an eternal perspective, believers are motivated to make choices that reflect their devotion to God, knowing that their actions have lasting significance beyond this life. In essence, being accountable to God is about embracing a holistic approach to life that honors Him in thought, word, and deed.
Accountable to God Bible Verses
- Romans 14:12
- “So then, each of us will give an account of ourselves to God.”
- 2 Corinthians 5:10
- “For we must all appear before the judgment 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.”
- Matthew 12:36
- “But I tell you that everyone will have to give account on the day of judgment for every empty word they have spoken.”
- 1 Peter 4:5
- “But they will have to give account to him who is ready to judge the living and the dead.”
- Ecclesiastes 12:14
- “For God will bring every deed into judgment, including every hidden thing, whether it is good or evil.”
- Luke 16:2
- “And he called him and said to him, ‘What is this that I hear about you? Give an account of your management, because you cannot be manager any longer.'”
- Hebrews 4:13
- “Nothing in all creation is hidden from God’s sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of him to whom we must give account.”
- Luke 12:48
- “But the one who does not know and does things deserving punishment will be beaten with few blows. For everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; and from the one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked.”
- Matthew 18:23-35
- This parable of the unforgiving servant, where the servant must settle accounts with his master, illustrates the importance of showing mercy, as we are held accountable for our actions and attitudes toward others.
Daily Accounting to God
The Bible tells us we’ll give an account of our lives at the end. But what if we didn’t wait until then?
“So then, each of us will give an account of ourselves to God.” — Romans 14:12
“The earlier, the better. ‘A stitch in time saves nine,’ they say. This practice comes with many benefits. However, seeing that we cannot escape giving account to God at the end of our lives (Revelation 20:11-15), why delay? Why not start now?
Each day, tell God how you spent it—how you spent your time, your money, when you went to your job, how you treated your servants, boss, friends, brother, fellow humans, etc.
If you are a student, tell God how you studied. If you are on a project, tell God about it. If there is anything you were supposed to do—maybe a responsibility on your shoulders—but you failed to do it, you must explain to God why you didn’t do it. You must do that as one explains to their boss.
Your faith must be great to practice this effectively. The list is unending. The principle is that if there is anything that you were meant to do but did not, you must give account—you must, with much reverence, explain to God. This would help keep you in check.
When you remember that you must give account—which might bring either chastisement or encouragement—you will, by so doing, take good action at every point in time.”
How Daily Accountability to God Drastically Changes Your Life
The benefits are plenty and mouth-watering. I would like to tell you that this practice is not a way to put yourself into bondage but to free yourself.
Remember, God has your best at heart. He said, ‘I know the thoughts I have for you, thoughts of good and not of evil, to give you an expected end.’ So don’t think that being conscious that God’s eyes are on you will hinder you from any good thing—maybe to take advantage of that person and cheat or dupe him, maybe to steal, maybe to sleep with that lady who is not your wife, maybe to watch those naked women on the internet.
All these things are chains or traps that God wouldn’t want you to be captivated by. Maybe as a youth you want to enjoy life, party, smoke, drink, and so on; practicing daily accountability to God won’t allow you to do those things for your own good.
Here are a few out of many benefits of practicing this:
- Spiritual Growth: Regular communication with God strengthens your relationship with Him. “Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you.” — James 4:8
- Inner Peace: It brings a sense of peace and fulfillment. “And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” — Philippians 4:7
- Greater Self-Control: Daily reflections and accountability foster self-discipline in thoughts, actions, and interactions. Remember what Joseph in the Bible said: “How could I do this wicked thing and sin against God?” Even when no one’s eyes were on him, he could control himself.
- Increased Faith and Trust in God: It helps you become more conscious of the presence of God in your life. This will powerfully boost your faith and trust in God. Even in times of trouble, you will acknowledge that the Lord Himself is with you, and you need not fear at all.
- Endurance in Trials: When you regularly communicate your struggles to God, you gain strength to endure and see the purpose behind challenges.
- Wisdom in Decision-Making: Your choices are greatly improved. Knowing you’re accountable can lead to better decisions. With God as your accountability partner, you seek His wisdom daily, which greatly influences your choices and reactions. “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.” — James 1:5
- Enhanced Relationships: Knowing that we must give account to God helps us treat people in the best way.
- Positive Influence: Your life becomes a testament to God’s grace, inspiring others toward their spiritual journey. “Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” — Matthew 5:16
Practical Steps to Make God Your Accountability Partner
Here are some practical steps to help you begin:
1. Set Clear Spiritual Goals
Identify specific areas where you want to grow or change. This could be improving your prayer life, overcoming a habit, or developing a Christ-like attitude.
- Write Them Down: Keeping a journal can help track your progress and keep you accountable.
- “Write down the revelation and make it plain on tablets so that a herald may run with it.” — Habakkuk 2:2
2. Establish Daily Communication with God
Regular prayer keeps you connected and accountable.
- Morning Prayer: Start your day by seeking God’s guidance.
- “In the morning, Lord, you hear my voice; in the morning I lay my requests before you and wait expectantly.” — Psalm 5:3
- Evening Reflection: End your day by reviewing your actions and seeking forgiveness where needed.
- “Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts.” — Psalm 139:23
3. Immerse Yourself in Scripture
God speaks to us through His Word. Regular Bible study helps align your actions with His will.
- Daily Reading: Set aside time each day to read the Bible.
- “Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.” — Psalm 119:105
- Meditation: Reflect on how the scriptures apply to your life.
4. Practice Mindfulness of God’s Presence
Remind yourself that God is with you at all times.
- Mindful Moments: Throughout the day, pause to acknowledge God’s presence.
- “The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.” — Deuteronomy 31:8
- Breath Prayers: Short, simple prayers can keep you connected.
5. Engage in Regular Self-Examination
Assess your actions and thoughts honestly.
- Personal Reflection: Consider if your behavior aligns with your spiritual goals.
- Confession: Admit your shortcomings to God.
- “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins.” — 1 John 1:9
6. Seek Guidance Before Making Decisions
Include God in your decision-making process.
- Prayerful Consideration: Ask for wisdom before acting.
- “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God.” — James 1:5
- Wait for Peace: Proceed when you feel a sense of peace about your choice.
7. Surround Yourself with a Faith Community
Connect with others who share your commitment.
- Attend Church: Regular worship keeps you grounded.
- Join a Small Group: Fellowship provides support and accountability.
- “And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds.” — Hebrews 10:24
8. Serve Others
Serving shifts your focus from yourself to God’s work. This is powerful.
- Volunteer: Find ways to help in your church or society.
- Acts of Kindness: Look for daily opportunities to bless others.
- “Do not forget to do good and to share with others.” — Hebrews 13:16
9. Keep a Gratitude Journal
Recording your blessings helps you stay positive and aware of God’s hand in your life.
- Daily Entries: Write down things you’re thankful for each day.
- Reflect on Progress: Acknowledge how far you’ve come.
10. Stay Committed and Consistent
onsistency strengthens your relationship with God. Don’t ever stop being accountable no matter what.
- Persevere: Even when it’s hard, keep going.
- “Let us not become weary in doing good.” — Galatians 6:9
- Trust in God’s Faithfulness: He will support you.
- “He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion.” — Philippians 1:6
Conclusion
Making God your daily accountability partner can transform your life in ways you can’t imagine. It’s about more than avoiding mistakes; it’s about growing closer to Him and becoming the person you were meant to be.
So, will you take that step today? Will you invite God into every aspect of your life and hold yourself accountable to Him daily? The journey won’t always be easy, but you’re not alone. God’s with you every step of the way.
Remember, just like John achieved his goal with Alex’s help, you too can reach new heights with God by your side. Start today, and watch how your life begins to change.
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” — Proverbs 3:5-6
