Blame Game
Just about everyone I know is really good at the blame game or has been really good at it in their past. I’ve used phrases like, “I don’t recall you saying that”; “I’m not sure how it got there”; “I have no idea what you are talking about” – the list could go on and on. This word simply means I assign responsibility to another for something I’m really responsible for. Ouch!
As I’ve grown older I realize that the blame game really only works well in politics and sometimes with family. The mature response to blame is to be quick to take responsibility that is mine and genuinely ask for forgiveness. I don’t know anyone who’s perfect except the Lord. I make mistakes and misstatements all the time – I need to be quick to own my actions and my words. Check this out….
30 ‘Therefore, you Israelites, I will judge each of you according to your own ways, declares the Sovereign Lord. Repent! Turn away from all your offenses; then sin will not be your downfall. 31 Rid yourselves of all the offenses you have committed, and get a new heart and a new spirit. Why will you die, people of Israel? 32 For I take no pleasure in the death of anyone, declares the Sovereign Lord. Repent and live! (Ezekiel 18:30-32 NIV)
I think the Lord is pretty clear. He really wants me to be totally honest with Him, myself and everyone else. I need to take responsibility that belongs to me. I’ve had a 4-step process that I’ve practiced over the years when I “screw up” or make a big mistake.
- Take responsibility that is mine
- Ask for forgiveness
- Make amends
- Move on
I don’t need to be a participant in the blame game. I make enough mistakes without playing that game. I want show maturity and wisdom and own my mistakes. I want to be quick to repent and eager to show respect for others. I have so little time here on earth to prepare for my home in heaven.
Pressing On!
Dwayne