Greater Enjoyment in God

“Delight yourself in the Lord . . .” Psalm 37:4

I have been in several accountability groups and programs in the past, and many of them involved a series of questions which were asked that we were responsible to share with one another. Some of the questions were like, “Did you tithe?” or “Have you had a consistent quiet time?” or “Have you share the gospel with anyone this week?” These questions are good questions to ask, but I feel like so much of what is being asked is dealing with my “performance” as a Christian. Consequently, my accountability was based on making sure I did the right things. In addition to this, I was encouraged to be more performance-driven, knowing that within a matter of days I did not want to be ashamed that I could not honestly answer the questions like I knew I should. Before long, I realized that I was relating to God on the basis of my works and not the finished work of Christ. My vision had inadvertently been taken away from the cross, from considering Christ and the sufficiency of his sacrifice to considering myself and the acceptability of my “sacrifices.”

Having reflected on the accountability I have experienced in the past, I am really grateful for the men in my life who have taken responsibility to see me conformed to Christ. However, there is one question I wish was asked during this time—a question I have been thinking about lately. The question is

“Are you experiencing greater enjoyment in God right now than at any other time in your life?”

This question, I believe, strikes at the very core of who we are and why we are created. God has saved us that we might be satisfied in him and not in sin, the world, or in ourselves. Yes, it is true that God is most glorified in us when we are most satisfied in him. So am I satisfied? Am I enjoying the blessed communion I have with God?

This goes before any other question we ask about what we do and serves as a foundation for the work of sanctification and ministerial service. If I am enjoying God and his sweet disposition of mercy towards me as an adopted son, then such joy will overflow into passionate worship, steadfast service, persevering prayer, and humble adoration to Jesus. Giving, sacrificing, witnessing will not be a chore or something motivated by a desire to make myself look good to my brother, but rather to make God look good to the world around me.

So I thought it was fitting to once again to ask that question to myself (and you as well). On that note, I wanted to inquire about any other questions you might ask yourself regularly, either daily or as a constant reminder or means of personal-examination. So let me ask:

“What questions to you pose to yourself for the purpose of personal accountability or examination?”

I would love to hear such probing questions, as I am sure they would be profitable to keeping a close watch upon my life and my teaching. So for my benefit (and other maybe), share a few questions you ask which stimulate holy affections and careful examination of one's life; on the other hand, feel free to share how accountability and self-watch has helped you in your spiritual growth. Thanks!