Accountability!

There are so many who refuse to accept ACCOUNTABILITY for their actions. These are people always looking for something or someone to blame. In our courts there are those who want to blame poverty, parents, society, etc., rather than acknowledging personal RESPONSIBILITY. Yes, background may explain some tendencies, but it does not excuse actions. We all make choices and must accept RESPONSIBILITY for the direction and impact they have on ourselves and the lives of others around us. Many would like to claim that what they do in private does not affect anyone else. However, that is not always true.

When those who had taken Jonah on board questioned him, he acknowledged he was running from God. He also acknowledged that the distress they were all in was due to his own actions.

“(11) Then they said to him, ‘What shall we do to you, that the sea may quiet down for us?’ For the sea grew more and more tempestuous. (12) He said to them, ‘Pick me up and hurl me into the sea; then the sea will quiet down for you, for I KNOW IT IS BECAUSE OF ME THAT THIS GREAT TEMPEST HAS COME UPON YOU.’ (13) Nevertheless, the men rowed hard to get back to dry land, but they could not, for the sea grew more and more tempestuous against them.” ( Jonah 1:11-13 ESV)

It appears to have taken the recognition of the peril of others to bring Jonah to openly acknowledge his sin. His personal choice was impacting the lives of others.

Excuses may work before the courts of earth. However, playing that game will not work before God. He is merciful. He is willing to forgive. But we must acknowledge and accept RESPONSIBILITY for our choices and their impact.

Paul exhorted:
“(9) So whether we are at home or away, we make it our aim to please him. (10) FOR WE MUST ALL APPEAR BEFORE THE JUDGMENT SEAT OF CHRIST, SO THAT EACH ONE MAY RECEIVE WHAT IS DUE FOR WHAT HE HAS DONE IN THE BODY, WHETHER GOOD OR EVIL.” ( 2 Corinthians 5:9-10 ESV)

We have heard the message of God. We have the freedom to make our choices. We are without excuse. We must acknowledge our personal ACCOUNTABILITY before God. May His Will become our will for our own sake as well as the sake of others.

Have a great day WITH THE GOAL TO PLEASE GOD!
Carl

See other teEn-MAIL on Jonah