It’s All About Accountability

Several weeks ago I volunteered at a DiscipleNow Weekend leading 7th-9th grade girls in Bible study.  One of the questions that they asked that stumped me a little was this, “How do I keep from repeating the same sin, or giving into the same temptation over and over?”

Now, week’s later I know exactly what I would say.  Though there may be other solutions, one of the best solutions that I have for this issue is “accountability”.  I look back on my teenage years and I remember having just one or two friends who took their faith as seriously as I did.  Those friends held me accountable for my actions.  Today, I have multiple friends who still do the same for me.

When looking for an accountability partner it is important to look for someone who is:

• Close to you in age. This may not necessarily mean chronological age, but could also mean “maturity” level.  We all mature at different speeds and you’ll want to take “Christian” maturity into account as well.  You will need to be on the same level with this person.
• Trustworthy. You will need to be able to discuss personal issues with the person and be able to trust that they will keep them confidential.
• Share the same morals and beliefs. In order to be able to hold each other accountable you will have to have the same morals and beliefs.  If you don’t believe in drinking alcohol but your accountability partner does, you won’t be able to truly be held accountable.

While an accountability partner cannot keep you from sinning they will help you to be able to keep in mind the fact that you are striving to stay away from temptation and avoid sin, especially those that are difficult for you.

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