We all deal with some sort of issue, some problem, some recurrent sin in our lives. Perhaps it is anxiety. Or addiction. Perhaps family conflict, depression, or a chronic medical issue. No matter the problem, there are many helpful strategies for dealing with it, including individual strategies (perhaps meditating on Scripture) and behavioral strategies (using a coping skill like journaling).
Another important strategy for dealing with our issues is relational.
Accountability.
Accountability keeps things in the light. Sin thrives in the darkness, in secret and isolation. But when we are purposefully confessing and dealing with our issues together with another person, we must confront reality and deal with it.
Accountability builds our relationships. We grow deeper with people whom we respect and care for. This type of relationship humbles us, grows us, and encourages us.
Accountability grounds us in the truth. We must acknowledge the truth of our issue, the sin with which we struggle. When the other person purposefully checks in, we must acknowledge the reality of our present moment, our successes and failures. Sure, you could lie. But in deciding to lie, you still acknowledge the truth to yourself.
Is accountability hard? Sure. It humbles us. It may embarrass us. And we need to be wise about what people we choose to be accountable with.
Is accountability necessary? Absolutely. No Christian is called to walk through life alone. Jesus didn’t. Neither can we.