Being Accountable!

As we observe others and listen to what they say, we develop various estimations of them and the same occurs toward us. When those views are known they can stand a good chance of influencing conduct and impacting self-esteem in either negative or positive ways. But how accurate is such JUDGMENT? Certainly we desire to have a good reputation among others, but just because we are well spoken of does not necessarily mean our life is right. (i.e. Luke 6:26) Neither does it mean our life is wrong when some speak against us.

Writing to the church at Corinth, Paul addressed a problem they had with regard to their view of others and even themselves. Their JUDGMENTS of one another and even of those who had taught among them were not as they should have been. In fact, their estimations of others had created divisions among them. (read 1 Corinthians 3:1-9 & 18-23)

Pointing to himself as an example, Paul wrote…
“(1) This is how one should regard us, as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God. (2) Moreover, it is required of stewards that they be found trustworthy. (3) But with me it is a very SMALL THING that I should BE JUDGED BY YOU OR BY ANY HUMAN COURT. In fact, I do NOT EVEN JUDGE MYSELF. (4) I am not aware of anything against myself, but I am not thereby acquitted. IT IS THE LORD WHO JUDGES ME.” ( 1 Corinthians 4:1-4 ESV)

Trustworthiness with regard to that which one has been entrusted is of paramount importance. Paul knew he should be held accountable as a servant of God to the church. However, he was not concerned with how others judged his life. What counted was not even a matter of how Paul viewed Paul. That JUDGMENT could be faulty as well. Note he did state that though he was not aware of anything against himself, that did not acquit him. There was the estimation or JUDGMENT of another that was of supreme significance to Paul; that of God!

Our estimation or JUDGMENT of others is often flawed because our insight is limited. We are also often not the best judge of even ourselves. It is possible to have either too high or too low an estimation of self. Like Paul, the standard by which we need to aim to live is with regard to God’s JUDGMENT. We are His servants and are ultimately accountable to Him for whether or not we have been good stewards of the charge we have received.

People observing our life are going to judge us. However, the judgment of others and even our judgment of our own selves is a small thing compared to God’s view of our life. Let our aim always be to live as His faithful servants seeking to fulfill His Purposes and Will with the hope of someday hearing His, “Well done.” ( Matthew 25:21)

Have a great day LIVING TO BE ESTEEMED BY GOD!
Carl

See other teEn-MAIL on Responsibility