Talking Toasters

2 Timothy 1:13-18

Last spring the toasters started talking in Hooke, England. (I’m not making this up!) Yep, toasters and other small appliances started emitting the sounds of Russian radio programs in the houses of Hooke.
Was this espionage? Were the Russians using toasters to transmit secret messages? No. The phenomenon was traced to a high-power BBC radio station a mile outside of town.

A spokesman for the station says, “Two bits of metal next to each other can pick up a radio signal. The two bits of metal act as a very basic diode and turn the signal into sound.”

An unusual phenomenon occurred as metals in toasters began producing sounds in England. But, even more amazing, God can change the “tune” of our hearts and minds as we hold another person accountable. Proverbs 27:17 states, “As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another.”

Accountability includes encouraging friends, and challenging them to a deeper relationship with Jesus. Paul described to Timothy how a friend helped him in two ways:

1. He “refreshed me” (2 Timothy 1:16).
2. He “searched hard for me” (v.17).

As you meet with a person who will hold you accountable, you will help refresh each other in your faith. You’ll keep God’s grace, love, and joy in front of your friend. At the same time, you will need to ask him the hard questions. You’ll “search hard” into his heart—helping him openly discuss his struggles and needs. You’ll need to make sure he does the same for you.

An interesting thing happens in accountability between two believers in Jesus. A synergy of spiritual growth occurs as the Lord is reflected more clearly through both partners—far greater Christlikeness than what could have been achieved alone.

You won’t start emitting Russian radio broadcasts. But the signals you send to others about your faith and relationship with Jesus will be much clearer. —Tom Felten

bottom line: Accountability Equation: 1 + 1 = 3 (in Jesus!)

soul journey