Accountability

What is the role of accountability in faith and in the lives of the faithful?

I've been reading about King David for my Disciple class. David had those who spoke to him in a way which served to keep him accountable to God.

1. Nathan comes to David following the events with Bathsheba and Uriah. He speaks with all honesty to David, and David finally sees what he has done wrong.
2. Joab, David's general also serves to remind David of his sin. when Joab sends a messenger back to tell David of the results of the battle, he predicts David's response and tells the messenger to remind the king that Uriah died, too. There were consequences to his actions.
3. Later, after David's son, Absalom is killed in battle, Joab has to go before David and tell him the truth -- get up and act like a king.

David as a better man of faith and a better ruler when his advisors are honest with him and provide accountability. I don't image that any of them liked doing it or hearing it.