The Earth would be accelerating now at 9.8 m/s2, but that doesn't mean it will be accelerating forever at 9.8 m/s2. The energy supply could run out at any time and we'd all end up being screwed over with this 'life' thing. The Earth could also, if it wanted to, accelerate forever without ever reaching the speed of light due to relativistic effects. This doesn't mean the Earth will be accelerating forever, just that it could.
Sorry if I ruined anyone's fun.