The spiritual-sounding phrase "I am answerable only to God" may be a subtle excuse for not answering to anyone, including God!

Charles Colson, one of President Nixon's closest aides during the Watergate coverup, became a Christian. In an article titled "The Problem of Power," he wrote, "Christians need to hold one another accountable. Although I know intellectually how vulnerable I am to pride and power, I am the last one to know when I succumb to their seduction. That's why spiritual lone rangers are so dangerous--and why we must depend on trusted brothers and sisters who love us enough to tell us the truth."

Paul confronted Peter face-to-face for his hypocrisy (Gal. 2:11-14). How embarrassing for Peter! But he needed the rebuke. Peter knew from his previous boasting and denial of Christ that he couldn't trust his own estimate of himself.

All of us must come to that realization sooner or later. One way to make sure you're not the last one to know when you're sinning is to "turn yourself in." Ask a Christian brother or sister to show you where you need improvement. They can help hold you accountable.

Don't be a spiritual lone ranger. Turn yourself in.  — Dennis J. De Haan