At the Open Heaven 2011 Conference at Bethel Church in Redding, CA last night Bill Johnson talked for a moment about accountability. He reminded us that there are at least two ways of considering the concept of accountability.
Johnson said as believers we often think about accountability in terms of its value in helping us avoid sin in our lives. Men's accountability groups are good examples of that facet of accountability. There is built into us a desire to avoid sin if we know we're going to have to fess up later.
There is another facet of accountability, and that is expressed in Hebrews 10:25 "And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds". Accountability isn't the only way to accomplish that, but when we are in relationship with other like-minded believers who have been given permission to exhort us, it can be powerfully useful.
I have been involved in both of these facets of accountability and have found them both useful. Right now I am in an accountability relationship with an older friend who "spurs me on". This relationship "sharpens my iron" and causes me to examine what I am thinking and doing in a very positive way. It's not always comfortable, but it is very much in the context of sincere friendship and that makes it much more than okay.
What has been the most valuable accountability relationship in your life?
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