Integrity and accountability are two vital ingredients for a healthy, thriving relationship. To uphold integrity is to choose to be honest, truthful and transparent in our dealings with the other person. It is to refuse to exploit the other person in any way and at any time. Integrity keeps us from abusing the other party’s trust. On the other hand, to be accountable is to be answerable to the other person. That means you don’t do what is pleasing to you or convenient for you.

Being a person of integrity and accountability in a relationship will sometimes mean that you deny yourself gratification. In today’s world of twisted values, you will certainly look like a fool upholding these values, but the dividends amount to heaven on earth.

But it takes two. In an intimate relationship like marriage, for example, both parties have to be committed to these values. I understand that some scenarios are less than ideal. If you are committed to somebody, but that person continues to take advantage of you and displays a lack of accountability, then you need to lovingly confront such a person.. If confrontation does not work, then it may be necessary to draw certain boundaries. One word of advice to those still courting or dating. If your partner shows lack of respect for integrity and accountability, that is one sure sign that you will endure hell on earth if you enter into marriage with such a person.

Do you desire a more adventurous and fulfilling relationship? Sit down with your partner and make a mutual quality decision to uphold integrity and accountability toward each other.