Divine Accountability
Job 31:14 Job recognizes that when God calls him to account, no excuses will stand. Like Job, our works will be judged and put through the fire.
10/6/20262 min read
What then shall I do when God rises up? When He punishes, how shall I answer Him? Job 31:14 (NKJV)
In his final oath of innocence, Job lists sins he has avoided knowing that there will be a day when God will make him accountable for the sins he has committed. Job recognizes that there is no defense that he can give when God calls him into account. He gives account on how he has treated his servants fairly, helped the poor, and widows to show that his ethics are not shaped by social norms but by the knowledge that God sees all and will judge impartially. Job shows that true righteousness flows from recognizing God as the ultimate and all-seeing Judge.
When we accepted Jesus as our Lord and Savior, we bypassed one judgment but incurred a different one. The bema seat judgement is when our works as believers will be tested by fire to see if they are acceptable to God. 1 Corinthians 3:11–15 says, "For no one can lay any foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ. If anyone builds on this foundation using gold, silver, costly stones, wood, hay or straw, their work will be shown for what it is, because the Day will bring it to light. It will be revealed with fire, and the fire will test the quality of each person’s work. If what has been built survives, the builder will receive a reward. If it is burned up, the builder will suffer loss but yet will be saved—even though only as one escaping through the flames." The fire symbolizes God’s judgment, which evaluates the quality and eternal value of our actions, motives, and service, but not our salvation: It was secure when we accepted Jesus. Our works that reflect Jesus will pass through the fire, while the works that reflect us will be burned up in the flames. Even if we don't have acceptable works, we will still make it to heaven, with smoke coming off of us and no rewards.
Choose to build your life and ministries on Christ, ensuring that your actions, relationships, and service reflect His teachings. Start by building on the foundation that is Jesus Christ, making all your work rooted on Him and not yourself. Make sure your works are obedient to God's word, done in love, empowered by the Spirit, and points others to Christ. Be motivated by love for God and not personal glory, pride, or temporary approval. Stay faithful in both big and small tasks and use your gifts and resources for God’s glory. When you reach heaven and God accounts your service for His good kingdom, He will say, “Well done, good and faithful servant" and reward you for your good works.