Character Is Responsible

Those with character are quick to take responsibility and slow to blame. They feel an obligation to God and to those who depend on them. Responsibility to a person of character is an opportunity to glorify God in their speech, attitude and actions. A responsible person engages in activities that take care of those entrusted to them.

Who in your life looks to you for care, comfort and correction? Are you available to answer their questions, listen to their fears and celebrate their accomplishments? Responsible people are in tune with the needs of those around them and offer resources to meet those needs. Like with the leader, Judah, responsibility is willing to take a risk for another, “I myself will guarantee his safety; you can hold me personally responsible for him” (Genesis 43:9a). Character takes responsibility for the well being of family.

Sometimes the responsible choice is to say no to an irresponsible request. It may be a prodigal child who wants more money, but bailing them out would only compound the consequences. It could be an investment that offers one more opportunity to make back your losses, but your heart and your spouse are steering you away from sending good money after bad. Responsibility knows how to say no and still honor the relationship.

Furthermore, do not resist being held responsible for your behavior for this is the essence of accountability. It could very well be a passive attitude that comes back as your responsibility, ” If a person sins because he does not speak up when he hears a public charge to testify regarding something he has seen or learned about, he will be held responsible” (Leviticus 5:1). Am I taking responsibility or avoiding conflict? Who in my life needs me to step up on their behalf? Character takes responsibility when others don’t.

Related Readings: Genesis 39:22; Leviticus 5:17; Luke 11:50; 1 Corinthians 7:24

Transformational Living
What did I learn from the Lord in today’s Bible reading?

How will I respond?