Have you ever noticed how hard it is to ask for accountability? Even when we know we need it, something in us resists.
In our small group recently, we discussed spiritual goals that stretch us, deepen our faith, and help us grow more like Jesus. I asked everyone to think about one area they’d like to improve and share it so we could support one another and stay accountable.
I shared that I want to be more consistent with meditating on Scripture. I aim for at least twice a week, but my real desire is to build it into a daily rhythm.
As we went around, many people brought up one struggle: memorizing Scripture is hard. Later that evening, I sent a message to the group suggesting we try learning one verse together each week or monthly. The response?
“I don’t like being held accountable, but this would help!!”
That made me laugh, and then it made me think. Isn’t that the tension we all feel? Accountability feels uncomfortable, but it’s also often what we need.
Goal Setting Without Accountability Is Just a Resolution
We’ve all made promises to ourselves—resolutions that felt right in the moment but fizzled out without follow-through. That’s where accountability makes the difference.
In Philippians 3:13-14 (CSB), Paul says: “Forgetting what is behind and reaching forward to what is ahead, I pursue as my goal the prize promised by God’s heavenly call in Christ Jesus.”
Paul had a clear spiritual goal: to know Christ deeply. And he pursued it with urgency and purpose. But he didn’t walk that road alone. He surrounded himself with people, wrote letters to challenge and encourage, and modeled the power of community.
Even earlier in that same passage, Paul says: “Not that I have already reached the goal or am already perfect, but I make every effort to take hold of it…” (Philippians 3:12)
There’s a humility in that—a recognition that spiritual growth doesn’t just happen—it takes effort, intentionality, and the kind of support that keeps us aligned when we’re tempted to drift.
Accountability Isn’t Control—It’s Support
Here’s the truth: accountability isn’t about being micromanaged. It’s about being seen. It’s about having someone remind you of your why when your motivation runs out. And it’s about permitting others to speak into your journey when they notice you slipping.
Proverbs 27:17 reminds us: “Iron sharpens iron, and one person sharpens another.”
Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 says: “Two are better than one… For if either falls, his companion can lift him up; but pity the one who falls without another to lift him up.”
We weren’t meant to do this life alone, not in our everyday or spiritual lives.
Accountability Is Not Shame—It’s Safety
Okay, let’s get real for a moment: accountability often gets mistaken for shame. When we miss a goal or fall back into old habits, we can feel embarrassed, discouraged, or even like we’re letting someone down. That’s when it’s easy to pull away.
But accountability isn’t about punishment or perfection. It’s about having someone in your corner who understands the struggle and still chooses to stand beside you. It’s someone who reminds you that grace is still yours, even on your worst day, and helps you get back up and try again.
2 Timothy 1:7 reminds us: “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but one of power, love, and sound judgment.”
Accountability is one way God gives us the power to do the hard things and the love to keep us from giving up.
Your Goal Is Not Achievement—It’s Alignment
Our current series, “Altered,” discusses what happens when we surrender our lives to God and allow Him to transform us. Romans 12:1 says, “Therefore, brothers and sisters, given the mercies of God, I urge you to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God; this is your true worship.”
Transformation begins at the altar, when we offer ourselves fully to God. But living a life of purpose and surrender means we need goals that keep us aligned with His heart… and people who help us stay on course.
Your Turn
So here’s your invitation:
- Pick a spiritual goal—just one. (Maybe it is to join a Group?)
- Write it down.
- Share it with someone you trust.
- Invite them to ask how it’s going.
It doesn’t have to be fancy. It just has to be real.
And if you’re ready for a fresh spark of inspiration or need help figuring out your next step, check out the remastered Experience from the “Altered” series kickoff message!
Let’s stop settling for good intentions. Let’s lean into transformation—with God, with each other, and with goals that actually move us toward who we were created to be.
Recent Comments