One thing about preaching – it keeps you honest. I told my congregation in last Sunday’s sermon that I would be returning to blogging this week. And as the (short, because of a holiday) week has rolled on, I began to wonder if I would find the time and inspiration to actually get a blog written. And then I remembered: I said it in a sermon, in front of God and everyone. I could (and should!) be held accountable if I let the week slip past without a blog.

I’ve learned the value of accountability over the past few years, while I’ve been on a weight loss and fitness journey. I am ten times more likely to make it to the gym, or do a workout at home, if I know my online group of workout friends are waiting for me to post what I’ve done for the day. They aren’t putting any pressure on me – in fact, they are incredibly supportive and understanding when it comes to ‘I just didn’t have it in me’ days. But just knowing that there is an expectation (even if it is my own) that I will post saying what class I did that day or how many push-ups I managed at home, makes me more motivated to get it done.

The same can be said about blogging. I love this blog, and I love that people tell me that they miss it when I go silent for a while. But as with all writing, sometimes you go through a dry time: when the words and ideas are just dried up, not flowing. For me, that happens when I am tired. I took some time off after Easter, I was tired. But the problem with that bit of a rest was that it stretched into a little more time off, and then I had a hundred reasons why I was too busy the next week and the next week and the next week.

So I am glad that the Spirit moved me to put an accountability clause in last week’s sermon. I am glad that dry times don’t last forever, and I very much look forward to a new season of blogging. Beginning now.

Is there something you need to be held accountable for? Something in your spiritual journey or a need to commit to some exercise or a change in your eating habits? Maybe a time away from screens and work so you can build up relationships with those closest to you? Think about it, pray about it. And then invite someone you trust to help hold you accountable. Often just knowing you had that conversation with whomever that person is for you, will be enough to keep to your commitment.

May you find blessing in being held accountable to your commitments and may God provide the right person to go that road with you.

Two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed. If one person falls, the other can reach out and help. But someone who falls alone is in real trouble.
Ecclesiastes‬ ‭4‬:‭9-10‬ NLT