Accountability to God
Believing in accountability to God is essential for living a life of integrity, moral character, and unwavering commitment to our beliefs.
A.W. Tozer emphasizes the profound concept of accountability to God, reflecting on how this belief shaped the character of early American leaders like Daniel Webster. He recounts Webster's assertion that the most serious thought he ever had was his accountability to his maker, highlighting the integrity and nobility that stemmed from such a conviction. Tozer argues that true character is forged in the understanding that we will ultimately answer to God for our lives. He encourages believers to live in a manner that would leave them unashamed before God at the time of judgment. The sermon serves as a reminder of the weight of our actions and the importance of living righteously.
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And as it is appointed for men to die once, but after this the judgment. --Hebrews 9:27
It was the belief in the accountability of man to his maker that made America a great nation. Among those earlier leaders was Daniel Webster whose blazing eyes and fiery oratory often held the Senate spellbound. In those days the Congress was composed of strong, noble statesmen who carried the weight of the nation in their hearts and minds.
Someone asked: "Mr. Webster, what do you consider the most serious thought that has ever entered your mind?"
"The most solemn thought that has ever entered my mind is my accountability to my maker," he replied.
Men like that cannot be corrupted and bought. They do not have to worry if someone listens to their telephone calls. What they were in character and in deportment resulted from their belief that they would finally be accountable to God. Echoes from Eden, 130.
"Lord, help me to live my life today in such a way that, should You call me tonight to stand before You and give account, I would have nothing of which I would need to be ashamed. Amen."
Sermon Outline
- The Importance of Accountability to God
- The Character of Leaders Who Believe in Accountability
- Practical Application of Accountability in Our Lives
- Living a Life of Integrity and Honesty
- Seeking God's Guidance and Accountability
Key Quotes
“The most solemn thought that has ever entered my mind is my accountability to my maker.” — A.W. Tozer
“Lord, help me to live my life today in such a way that, should You call me tonight to stand before You and give account, I would have nothing of which I would need to be ashamed. Amen.” — A.W. Tozer
Application Points
- We must live our lives in a way that honors God and prepares us for the day when we will give account of our actions and decisions.
- Regularly seeking God's guidance and being honest with ourselves and others is essential for cultivating a sense of accountability in our lives.
- Taking responsibility for our actions and decisions is crucial for living a life of integrity and moral character.