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Answer
There is much temptation in the world today, and Satan is always striving to create even more. Faced with such temptation, many Christians seek an “accountability partner” to pray with and share the burdens that come with spiritual warfare. It is beneficial to have a reliable brother or sister to rely on when encountering temptations. King David was alone the evening Satan tempted him into adultery with Bathsheba (2 Samuel 11). The Bible informs us that we battle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places “For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.”, (Ephesians 6:12).
Recognizing that we are in a battle against the forces of darkness, we should seek as much support as possible and this may involve being accountable to another believer who can provide encouragement in the struggle. Paul instructs us to be equipped with all the power that God supplies to fight this battle: “Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand” “Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.”, (Ephesians 6:13). We are certain that temptation will come. We should be prepared.
Satan is aware of our weaknesses and vulnerabilities. He knows when a married couple is in conflict and may feel that someone else could better understand and sympathize. He knows when a child has been disciplined by their parents and might be feeling
Despite being aware of his actions, he tends to stop at the bar on his way home when things are not going well at work. Where can we seek assistance? We desire to act in accordance with God’s will, yet we are feeble. What steps should we take?
Proverbs 27:17 states, “Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.” A person’s countenance reflects a friend’s expression of support or encouragement. When was the last time a friend reached out to check on you? When did you last reach out to a friend to offer a listening ear? Support and encouragement from a friend are often the missing elements in the battle against Satan. Mutual accountability can provide these missing elements.
The author of Hebrews encapsulated this idea by saying, “Let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day approaching” (Hebrews 10:24-25). The Body of Christ is interconnected, and we have a responsibility to uplift one another. Similarly, James suggests mutual accountability by stating, “Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working” «Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much. », (James 5:16).
Having an accountability partner can be beneficial in the struggle against sin. An accountability partner can offer encouragement, correction, instruction, celebration, and support. It is advisable for every Christian to consider having an accountability partner with whom they can pray, converse, confide, and admit their faults.
