Is Accountability Important?

Yes. Yes it is! This morning I read an article about actor/former governor of California, Arnold Schwarzenegger and his recently discovered (ahem..) indiscretions. His behavior was indeed despicable, but it appears that he has acknowledged this fact and is seeking to make amends with his family. I guess time will tell as far as his sincerity.

This instance of infidelity is only one of many amongst those of wealth and influence. It seems as if there is a new scandal of this nature every week in Hollywood and sports circles. Remember the Tiger Woods fiasco? Why is this so? Perhaps it is because they do not have solid people in their lives to hold them accountable and keep their lives in proper balance. In other words, there is not one person in their inner circle that will/can tell them '"no" or "I don't think that is a very good idea." Is this a byproduct of wealth and fame or is it a willful move on the part of the individual? I am not sure.

Sadly, this pattern is not limited to the rich and famous. I have know of pastors, young people, politicians, etc. that have suffered through similar circumstances. Temptation knocks and we just open the door. Such circumstances play out in our lives every day.

I believe that we see such rampant patterns of such behavior in our society today because of a lack of solid accountability in our lives. Thankfully, many have recognized that we need other people actively involved in our everyday affairs. But many have not and have suffered the consequences of an isolated life. Consider the following:

Proverbs 27:17 Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend.

Proverbs 27:6 Faithful are the wounds of a friend; but the kisses of an enemy are deceitful.



Galatians 6:2 Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ.

We are not meant to live our lives separated from others. Some have willfully chosen the monastic life to escape sin and temptations. Others, through wealth and fame seem to think that they are above it all. Even we average Joes are susceptible to a fall when we do not allow others to help sharpen us, rebuke/correct us or help us bear the struggles of life. The reality of life is that we all struggle with sin. It ain't pretty. We hate for others to see our weaknesses. But we are ticking time bombs and it is likely a matter of time before we find ourselves in trouble if we do not surround ourselves with folks that are bold enough to be real with us. Even the terminator needed help along his journey :-)

Have a great day!