It's Up to You
When it comes to our relationship with God, there's a truth we can't escape personal responsibility. It's easy to rely on what others say, like our pastors, for guidance. Yet, when the day of judgment arrives, 'But my pastor told me’ Won’t be a defense.
The Bible is clear on this. In Romans 14:12, it states, "So then each one of us will give an account of himself to God." This verse emphasizes the individual nature of our accountability before God. No one else can stand in our place or take responsibility for our choices.
Even if we've received wise counsel from our pastors or mentors, it ultimately boils down to our personal walk with God. Proverbs 3:5-6 “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, And do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He will make your paths straight.” This acknowledgment is personal—it's about our direct connection with God.
Jesus Himself highlighted this personal responsibility in Matthew 7:21-23, saying, 'Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does the will of My Father who is in heaven will enter. Many will say to Me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in Your name, and in Your name cast out demons, and in Your name perform many miracles?’ And then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness.’" Their excuse of knowing Him doesn't exempt them from judgment.
Therefore, while guidance from pastors and spiritual leaders is valuable, it's not a substitute for our individual relationship with God. We're accountable for our actions, our faith, and our choices.
As believers, let's heed the words of Hebrews 4:13 "And there is no creature hidden from His sight, but all things are open and laid bare to the eyes of Him with whom we have to do." This verse reminds us that God sees everything, including the state of our hearts and our personal commitment to Him.
So, let's take ownership of our walk with God, seeking His guidance directly through His Word, prayer, and a sincere desire to follow Him. In doing so, we honor our responsibility and cultivate a deeper, more authentic relationship with our Heavenly Father.
Fifty years ago, I committed my life to serving the Lord. I hold an associate degree in Christian Education and a bachelor’s degree in Christian Counseling. I live by 1 Corinthians 9:16, and Ephesians 3:7-8. In my retirement, I focus on studying and sharing the teachings of God’s Word with others. Besides writing this Blog, I maintain 3 Facebook pages dedicated to spreading the Word of God. Email Dean: hopeinchrist2024@yahoo.com