Why Accountability Helps You Beat Temptation

We all face temptation, but most of us try to beat it alone. I’ve walked through my own temptation cycle, and with people through their own cycles. It rarely breaks until someone else is invited in to provide an amazing aid called accountability.

God built us to grow through relationship, shoulder to shoulder with somebody who won’t let us hide.

“Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.” (Galatians 6:2, ESV)

Paul’s describing how the whole body of Christ works. None of us are exempt from needing someone in our corner.

Why Accountability Changes Everything

When someone knows you well enough to ask the hard question, you start making different choices. Often, before you get the chance to explain them away. That’s the power of accountability. It doesn’t erase the temptation, but it puts a person between you and the moment you’re tempted to hide.

“Two are better than one…for if they fall, one will lift up his fellow. But woe to him who is alone when he falls and has not another to lift him up!” (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10, ESV).

I’ve watched this Biblical concept play out again and again in ministry. And sadly, I’ve also watched what happens when it doesn’t play out. People who stay accountable to someone rarely fall alone, and when they stumble, there’s already a hand reaching for them.

Finding Someone Who Will Actually Hold You Accountable

Not every friendship qualifies as an accountability partner. You need someone mature enough in their own faith to ask you something uncomfortable. But they also need to be mature enough to stick around for the answer, even when it’s a mess-up or a complete failure. Which means it should be someone you trust enough to tell the truth to, even when it’s embarrassing.

The actually accountabiity doesn’t need to be complicated either. A standing coffee meeting once a week works, or even a phone call to check in. There are also small group options where people know your name and your struggles, and you all walk through them in a tight community together. The format doesn’t matter as long as honesty and vulnerability are fostered.

Don’t Face This Alone

Today’s the day. If you’re fighting the same temptation on repeat, stop trying to win that fight by yourself. Find someone willing to walk with you and ask you the hard questions. Make sure they love you enough (and are tough enough) to stay when things get messy.

Remember, accountability won’t make the temptation disappear. However, it will make it a lot easier when the moment comes. It’s a powerful thing when you’re able to face the struggles and the trials with backup!

Join the Conversation; Share Your Thoughts

• Do you have an accountability partner, and how has that relationship helped you grow?
• Where in your life do you need more accountability right now?
• Who could you become an accountability partner for?