Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Accountable to Anyone?
The recent revelation regarding star athletes together with that of political leaders, have prompted many of us to give consideration to the issue of moral authority as it pertains to leadership. It is much easier to see the connection with one in an official leadership role as in the political arena. In large measure they lose their ability to lead because of their immoral behavior. But what about someone in a position like star athletes, who have major influence on others by means of their athletic accomplishments? In such a situation, can performance be separated from personal morality? There are many who feel that they have no responsibility to the public for what they have done, and that it is merely a private matter that they must address with their families. As far as they are concerned, others have chosen to look up to them as role models rather than expecting them to meet a requirement, such as reporting to a boss or submitting to a spiritual authority. However, the reality is that success in the public arena puts people in the spotlight, especially with young people, so that they do have a degree of accountability whether or not they are willing to accept it. They should ask themselves what impact their choices will have on their followers. What are your thoughts on this issue?
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Everyone is a role model to someone. A father to his son, an employer to his employee, a pastor to his congregation etc.
ReplyDeleteThe problem is all or at least most of us, want to keep secrets secret, which is very harmful.
If we have an accountability partner that is great. Pray communication with Lord is paramount but we also need a person whom we can be spiritual and emotional honest with. The problem with many is they try to sweep too much under the rug. I often teach in my class on recovery the following. Many of us sweep our problems under the rug and we do this over and over until we have a hump in the rug. Then one night we wake up in the dark and trip over the hump. Then we have to deal with all the problems we hid under the rug. I tell folks never put off till tomorrow what should be done today. For example if you offend someone apologize today not next week, if you sin ask God to forgive you on the spot instead of waiting until the next good sermon etc.
All and all everyone needs a good friend who has permission to delve into our lives and ask us anything they desire and we must tell them the truth. We must encourage this person to confront us if they deem a change in us in any way. This will require us to be truthful and deal with issues sooner than later.
Don