Dave’s Monday Blast – May 16, 2016

Genesis Chapter 1 informs us that we are created in God’s image! This truth means that every human being has infinite dignity, value and worth. But this essential truth means little without authentic relationship. Josh McDowell reminds us that “truth without relationship leads to rejection”. No doubt this is what Paul had in mind when he admonished us in 1 Corinthians 13:1-3 not to forget that our actions mean very little without genuine love being our true motivation.

With this in mind…before I share the last A of relationship, here are the first 6 in review:

Affirmation – sense of authenticity

Acceptance – sense of security

Appreciation- sense of significance

Availability – sense of importance

Affection – sense of lovability

Approach – sense of personal connection

The last of the 7 A’s of relationship from Josh McDowell:

Accountability – it provides for a sense of responsibility. Accountability establishes reasonable rules, boundaries and consequences. But as Josh stated “rules without relationship lead to rebellion.” We know that the Lord admonishes those He loves (Hebrews 12:6-11; Proverbs 3:12), and His love was clearly demonstrated toward us on the cross (Romans 5:8). His admonishment is simply His method of holding us accountable.

Being accountable means two things: 1) I am responsible for my choices. 2) I am loved regardless of my choices. Accountability is a solid Biblical principle. It applies to all of us. Your mission this week, brothers, if you have the courage to accept it, is to consider if there is an area of your life that you have not brought under the umbrella of accountability. You must be INTENTIONAL about holding nothing back from Him.