Dennis Abernathy

We have all heard the expression “The Blame Game” in a variety of ways and in numerous settings. A common practice of our society is what we may call “absolution of accountability.” Simply put, everything under the sun, regardless of how outrageous it may be, is used to excuse or explain away our actions. We pass on blame at the drop of a hat and shed personal accountability like water of a duck’s back! In most cases the assignment of blame is the absolution of self and the promotion of self as being right. We can neatly wipe our hands clean and say: “I didn’t do it, and if I did, it’s not my fault.”

I read a good summary of “blame.” Blame never affirms; it always assaults. Blame never solves; it always complicates. Blame never unites; it always separates. Blame never smiles; it always frowns. Blame never forgives; it always accuses and rejects. Blame never forgets; it always remembers. Blame never builds; it always destroys. How true!

The real need is to focus on our part of the problem and not the other person’s faults, and very importantly, accepting responsibility for our problems and not absolving ourselves from accountability. The common tendency is to say: “It’s everybody’s fault but mine. They are just doing this to me because they…and then a whole litany of charges is leveled.” But our real need is to realize and to say: “I am wrong. I have sinned. I have committed this iniquity. I am guilty and I am the problem.” This is the only way to bring about a change and improvement in our life. Henry Cloud said: “Blame is the parking brake for improvement!”

To accomplish this is to look inward at self and not outward at others. This requires a humble attitude (1 Pet. 5: 6; Jas. 4: 10). This humility starts with our attitude and standing before God. We can never be exalted and lifted up if we play the “Blame Game.”

If you are not a Christian, don’t blame others or circumstances or God for your neglect. “How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation?” (Heb. 2: 3). If your life is not in order obey God today. Believe in Christ, repent of your sins, confess Christ as the Son of God and be baptized for the remission of your sins (Mk. 16: 16; Rom. 10: 9-10; Acts 8: 37; Acts 2: 38). Think on these things