So then, each of us will give an account of ourselves to God. (Rom. 9:12)
Expanded Passage: Romans 14:9-12
Giving an account for one’s action can be a stressful experience. I recall bringing report cards home to my parents. In college, I had to explain a previous night’s shenanigans to the dean. More recently, an IRS auditor wanted to review my tax return. Although giving an account can create a certain level of anxiety, there are other occasions when we share accomplishments with expressions of joy. Can you recall a time when your team was able to win the game because you played exceptionally well? Have you heard friends recount how they met and courted the person they eventually married? Have you ever told someone of an investment you made that turned out to be a winner?
A final accounting awaits each of us when this life is over. God, the righteous and loving judge, will ask us to share how we have handled the gifts of life and salvation he has offered us. Perhaps there will be some apprehension. But we rejoice that we can come into his presence with sins confessed, forgiven, and forgotten. We will have the opportunity to relate how we have lived out the gospel in faithful stewardship of what we have received and in loving actions toward others. We should live each day in hope and anticipation of the words, “well done,” spoken by the One who has our best interests at heart.
Anticipate with joy your final accounting to God.
Clarence (Bud) Bence is a retired Wesleyan pastor and college professor, and lives with his wife, Carol, in Marion, Indiana.
© 2024 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission. Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®.
