Wednesday, 14 May 2008

• Currently Reading The Cross of Christ By John R. W. Stott see related

  Accountability

  Ever since I experienced God's grace in my life (at the very same moment that I realized that I was a sinner in need of a Savior), I've been a firm believer in the power of community.  I've broken too many commitments and resolutions to deny that I need accountability and encouragement... and at times, rebuke and discipline.

  In general, I'd say that I'm open about my life, and I will gladly share about my joys and struggles.  I have experienced the benefits of honestly sharing my weaknesses, as well as admitting pride in what I consider to be my strengths (these can sometimes become the worst weaknesses).  It's such a blessing when others keep you accountable for commitments you've made, and ask you about them... especially since that usually means that they've kept you in prayer.  However, even if no one is willing to confront me about the things I've shared, I've found that it's still helpful to share about them.  Why?  Once I talk about something, it makes it official, and I can't take it back.  That means I can't make excuses anymore, and I have to take action.

  Last year, I gave birth to a beautiful baby girl.  Today, she is an active toddler who takes up much of my energy and time.  I've used her as an excuse to put aside many of the things I've been wanting to do to help me on my spiritual journey to draw closer to God.  When I was pregnant, I made a commitment to take time to study the doctrine of the Cross.  I understood the Gospel and what it meant to me, but I wanted to understand it more deeply.  After doing some research, I purchased a couple of books written by a great theologian.  I read a few chapters of the smaller book before I became a mother, but the one I had really wanted to delve into sat on the bookshelf collecting dust.

  A couple of weeks ago, I shared my commitment to get over my laziness and the many excuses in my head during prayer time with the sisters in my church small group.  God had reminded me of  the book I had purchased many months ago, and I wanted to obey.  By God's grace, I am now on the third chapter, but I share this commitment again here because I haven't picked it up for several days now.  To some, this might seem like a trivial struggle, but discipline is a big part of the Christian life.  Setting aside time to pray or read the Word isn't as easy as it sounds, and adding other books to help study the Word is a big challenge for a lazy, full-of-excuses mom such as myself!

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