Accountability

Bible Reading: Numbers 20:1–13

 

Moses was one of the greatest servants of God in the Bible. He was chosen to lead Israel out of Egypt, stood before Pharaoh, witnessed God's mighty power, received the Law at Mount Sinai, and spoke with God in a remarkable way. Yet Numbers 20 reminds us of a sobering truth: no matter how greatly God uses a person, that person is never above God's Word.

 

At Meribah, the people again complained because there was no water. God gave Moses specific instructions.  God asked Moses to gather the congregation together, take the rod and speak to the rock before their eyes.  But Moses, frustrated with the people, instead of speaking to the rock as God had commanded, struck it twice with his rod. God still graciously provided water for the people, but He held Moses accountable for his disobedience.  God said Moses did not hallow Him in the eyes of the children of Israel, and so he was forbidden from entering the land of Canaan. 

 

This is a sobering warning for everyone who serves God. 

 

When we disobey God we do not hallow God in the eyes of the people among whom we live and God will hold us accountable!

 

A position of spiritual authority does not make anyone a law unto himself. A person may be greatly gifted, greatly respected, and greatly used by God—but still is required to obey God's Word carefully.  Moses had obeyed God many times before. His past faithfulness, however, did not excuse his present disobedience.  God is not concerned only about the miracle but about His holiness being represented correctly before the people.

 

Those who lead God's people therefore carry a serious responsibility. Our words, attitudes, decisions, and actions can either honor God or misrepresent Him.

 

This should make us humble. We should never assume that spiritual success gives us permission to disregard God's instructions.  Jesus said: “If you love Me, keep My commandments.” (John 14:15).  The measure of a servant is not merely how much God accomplishes through him, but whether he remains faithful and obedient to the One he serves.

 

My friend, never allow your calling, position, experience, or past faithfulness to make you think you are above obedience. Let every servant of God—whether pastor, preacher, teacher, or ordinary believer—remain humble before God's Word. God can use us greatly, but He also holds us accountable.

 

Prayer:  Holy God, keep us humble when You use us, and never allow our position, experience, or past faithfulness to make us careless about obedience. Help us to honor You faithfully in everything we say and do, remembering that we are servants and You alone are Lord. Amen.

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