Taking Accountability

When you learn to be accountable by forgiving yourself or the other person you may have hurt.

• Acknowledging our flaws

There comes a time in our lives when we will slip up. Whether it’s by hurting ourselves or by hurting others through what we say, this is when accountability comes in. We learn to have courage and become accountable for the mistakes we make.

When I looked up the word accountability, the meaning was, “the obligation or willingness to take responsibility for one’s actions, decisions, and outcomes.” That definition alone can make us feel ashamed and afraid to take responsibility for fixing the things we messed up.

But I want to say this: it’s like we have to be our own coach. This goes along with taking care of ourselves and our well-being. When you learn to be accountable by forgiving yourself or the other person you may have hurt, the heavy burden you’ve been carrying will begin to lift off of you. Why? Because you did your part by owning up to your faults. You were honest with yourself and with the person you may have hurt.

This person really stood up and took accountability for what they had done.

• It Takes Strength & Courage

Now, you may experience the other person not accepting your accountability, and I want to let you know—don’t let this discourage or distract you from your purpose. Remember, you did your part by keeping your integrity and apologizing to the individual. If they can’t accept it, then that’s on them.

By doing this, you become an authentic person. In some cases, others may notice and say, “Man, this person really stood up and took accountability for what they had done.” It truly takes strength and courage to do this. That’s what being human is all about. It’s about taking action and becoming a responsible person.

The person who caused the conflict realized how deeply they had hurt the other person.

• Facing Realization

An example of this could be someone who had an argument with another person. During the argument, they called them names, yelled at them, and said other hurtful things they later regretted. As time went on, the person who caused the conflict realized how deeply they had hurt the other person. They then had to face their actions, take accountability, and admit that what they did was wrong.

Not only did this person free themselves, but they also found healing and peace by stepping up and making amends.

God, He will teach you and direct you on how to take accountability.

• Key Scriptures

In situations like this, the best thing to do is to go to God. Ask Him to show you what you need to do and how to approach the person you hurt. At times, shame can take over and keep you from becoming free. But by surrendering to God, He will teach you and direct you on how to take accountability, approach that person, and make peace.

A Scripture that comes to mind is when Jesus said:

“Leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift.” — Matthew 5:24 (KJV)

The key thing Jesus said was to be reconciled, which means to restore a relationship after conflict.

Another Scripture I love says:

“Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.” — James 5:16 (KJV)

The key words are confess, pray for one another, and be healed. This brings healing not only to you but also to the other person.

Take time to reflect on your experiences, analyze them, meditate, and focus on what is good. By taking accountability for our actions, we become better people.