I have experienced how accountability makes me better. When we are accountable to someone, we can hear the proper counsel and encouragement when we are honest about our faults. Doing this helps us fulfill the plans the Lord has for us.
If we need to correct or be corrected, it should be done with love and grace, not with judgment and harsh words. Jesus tells us when a person repents of their sins, we must forgive. To be accountable is to stay within healthy boundaries, whether in our relationship with God, others, or something work-related. Whatever I struggle with, accountability helps me move in a positive direction.
Unfair Treatment
Paul and Silas had been beaten and placed in prison without trial, which was illegal to do to a Roman citizen. Paul explained that the system violated his rights as a Roman citizen. Acts 16:35 The next morning the city officials sent the police to tell the jailer, “Let those men go!” 36 So the jailer told Paul, “The city officials have said you and Silas are free to leave. Go in peace.” 37 But Paul replied, “They have publicly beaten us without a trial and put us in prison—and we are Roman citizens. So now they want us to leave secretly? Certainly not! Let them come themselves to release us!”
38 When the police reported this, the city officials were alarmed to learn that Paul and Silas were Roman citizens. 39 So they came to the jail and apologized to them. Then, they brought them out and begged them to leave the city.[1]
Accountability Results in an Apology
The city officials were alarmed because a case law set a precedent for severe consequences for imprisoning a citizen unjustly. At the very least, they could lose their jobs; at the worst, they could be exiled or executed for their actions. This was serious business. No wonder they wanted Paul and Silas to leave immediately. They didn’t want this getting out.
Paul does use the situation to his advantage. He demanded an apology and got it. Even when they ask him to leave, Paul takes his time. He goes to Lydia’s house and says his goodbyes. He is very sure they won’t come after him again.
Accountability and My Relationship with the Lord
Accountability in our faith walk helps us grow in our relationship with the Lord, which is the foundation of everything we do. When my relationship with the Lord is heading in the right direction, other parts of my life seem to fall into place. A good foundation built on Jesus gives me the wisdom to conduct every aspect of my life, as one day, we will have to make an account of our lives. 2 Corinthians 5:10 For we must all stand before Christ to be judged. We will each receive whatever we deserve for the good or evil we have done in this earthly body. [2]
To learn how accountability makes me better, listen here:
https://podpoint.com/light-of-christ-church-podcast/light-in-prison
[1-2] Tyndale House Publishers. (2015). Holy Bible: New Living Translation . Carol Stream, IL: Tyndale House Publishers.