But What If, Accountability Creates True Freedom
“But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him.” – Luke 15:20 (NIV)
The second meaning of the letter “A” in the VONA Process is “accountability”. Many people believe accountability restricts their freedom—limiting what they can do and how they can live. But the truth is quite the opposite: genuine accountability is the path to true freedom. Just like roadside guardrails, accountability is meant to protect you.
Consider the story of the prodigal son. He thought leaving home—breaking away from accountability to his father—would lead to freedom and happiness. Instead, it led to disaster and despair. Only when he humbly returned home, submitting again to the accountability and protection of his father’s household, did he truly find freedom, love, and restoration.
In our experience of raising four children, we saw a similar dynamic. “Occasionally”, ahem, one of them would disregard our household rules, thinking they would enjoy greater freedom. Instead, their actions led to being grounded or losing certain privileges, precisely because they chose to step outside our accountability. Accountability wasn’t designed to restrict them—it was meant to protect and guide them toward true freedom and responsibility.
How Accountability Creates True Freedom
- Protection from Harm:
- Like guardrails on a road, accountability keeps us safely on track.
- Clarity and Direction:
- Accountability clarifies expectations and helps us make wise decisions.
- Personal Growth:
- When we embrace accountability, we become more disciplined, responsible, and ultimately, freer to pursue meaningful opportunities.
- Restored Relationships:
- Accountability, as demonstrated in the prodigal son’s story, restores broken relationships, bringing peace and true joy.
Reflection Questions
- Have you viewed accountability as a limitation or as a pathway to freedom?
- Is there an area of your life where greater accountability could actually bring more freedom?
- How can you proactively embrace accountability in your personal, professional, or spiritual life today?
Practical Ways to Embrace Accountability Today
- Personal Life: Share your personal goals or struggles with a trusted friend, family member, or mentor who can regularly check in and support you.
- Professional Life: Set clear, measurable goals with deadlines, and ask a colleague or coach to regularly follow up on your progress.
- Spiritual Life: Join a small group or accountability partnership where you regularly share, pray for one another, and encourage spiritual growth.
Final Thought
Accountability isn’t the enemy of freedom—it’s the foundation for genuine freedom and flourishing. Just as the prodigal son’s accountability to his father restored him fully, embracing accountability in our own lives can lead to deeper joy, peace, and lasting freedom.
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