How can you prepare to give an account to God as Romans 14:12 states? Facing the Reality of Accountability “So then, each of us will give an account of himself to God.” (Romans 14:12) • God’s judgment is personal—“each of us.” • His assessment is comprehensive—“give an account,” covering motives, words, and actions (1 Corinthians 4:5). • The certainty of that day calls for continual readiness (Hebrews 9:27; 2 Corinthians 5:10). Examine Your Faith Foundation • Salvation is by grace through faith, not works (Ephesians 2:8-9). • Confirm you are truly in Christ (2 Corinthians 13:5). • Rest in the finished work of Jesus, who secures your standing (Romans 8:1). Cultivate Daily Obedience • Love-driven obedience pleases the Lord (John 14:15). • Be “doers of the word, and not hearers only” (James 1:22). • Practice regular Scripture intake, prayer, and confession to keep your walk clean (Psalm 119:11; 1 John 1:9). Walk in Love Toward Others • The immediate context of Romans 14 urges patience with fellow believers. • Pursue peace and mutual edification (Romans 14:19). • Your love testifies to authentic discipleship (John 13:35). Steward the Gifts Entrusted to You • Every talent, opportunity, and resource belongs to God (Psalm 24:1). • Use them faithfully, like the servants commended in Matthew 25:14-30. • “Each of you should use whatever gift he has received to serve others” (1 Peter 4:10). Guard Your Speech and Thoughts • “On the day of judgment people will give account for every careless word” (Matthew 12:36). • Let the words of your mouth and the meditation of your heart be acceptable to Him (Psalm 19:14). • Take every thought captive to the obedience of Christ (2 Corinthians 10:5). Live with Eternity in View • Set your mind on things above, not on earthly things (Colossians 3:1-4). • Live to please the Lord now, anticipating His reward (2 Corinthians 5:9-10; Revelation 22:12). • Store up treasure in heaven where it can never perish (Matthew 6:19-21). Encourage One Another in Readiness • “Let us consider how to spur one another on to love and good deeds” (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Build up fellow believers with words of hope (1 Thessalonians 5:11). • Sharpen each other like iron sharpens iron (Proverbs 27:17). Living this way prepares you to stand before the Lord with confidence and joy, fully assured that your life has honored Him who will one day review it. |