Accountability

Scripture – Genesis 9:4-7: “But you must not eat meat that has its lifeblood still in it. And for your lifeblood I will surely demand an accounting. I will demand an accounting from every animal. And from each man, too, I will demand an accounting for the life of his fellow man. “Whoever sheds the blood of man, by man shall his blood be shed; for in the image of God has God made man. As for you, be fruitful and increase in number; multiply on the earth and increase upon it.”

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) Perhaps this is the answer to Cain’s question in Genesis 4:9 – “Am I my brother’s keeper?” The answer is “Yes!” As Noah and his family start over, God let’s them know they are responsible for one another. And that responsibility is to extend to every person.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) In this day and age, we have become so self-centered we’ve lost a sense of community. Yet one of the basic lessons from Genesis is we are all part of one family, created by God for His purposes. So, for example, when a person makes a racial slur on his nationally broadcast radio/TV program, we all are offended. Or at least, we should be. I don’t pretend to understand the depth of that insult to an African-American. I only know it was deeply offensive. And God has commanded that we each hold one another accountable. For too long I have let racist remarks slide by. I’ve made excuses for the people saying them – their age, their upbringing, their personal experience. I will watch my language today. I will confront people who make such remarks in my presence.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord, give me grace and strength to do that in a redemptive way. Help me look deeper into the prejudices of my heart. Continue to create in me a new heart and renew a right spirit within me.