S-"So Christ has really set us free. Now make sure that you stay free, and don't get tied up again in slavery to the law." Galatians 5:1
A-God's gift of freedom
L-To Hold Accountable
"Dear brothers and sisters, if another Christian is overcome by some sin, you who are godly should gently and humbly help that person back onto the right path. And be careful not to fall into the same temptation yourself." Galatians 6:1
As the Body of Christ we are called to help one another, to hold one another accountable and to encourage one another.
This passage can be a very touchy passage for some, because not everyone wants to be held accountable.
Let me ask you, the friends you are surround yourself with, are they followers of Christ? Do they hold you accountable or do they encourage you in your sin?
A true friend whose desire is to honor and serve the Lord will keep you accountable to His Word and His ways. If they see you struggling with a sin, whether it be gossip, pride, greed, jealousy, envy, addiction, anger, drunkenness, selfishness, etc. they will tell you! They will not agree with your behavior or decision.
Do your friends do this for you or do they partake in the sin with you? Maybe these are the friends you want, and if so, brethren understand they are doing more harm than they are good.
Do your friends push you to be better for Christ everyday? If your answer is no, pray and ask God to bring new godly friends into your life and to weed out the bad ones. He will do it!!
What about you? What kind of friend are you? Are you one that holds your brother and sister accountable in a gentle and humble manner, or do you agree with them because you don't want to upset them?
Sweet one, its not easy holding a brother or sister accountable, believe me I know, but in the end, it's what a true friend and a true follower of Christ does. Because its biblical and beneficial to the Body of Christ.
Before you approach them, spend time in prayer! Ask the Lord to give you discernment, understanding and wisdom to know how and what to say.
And always make sure you allow the Holy Spirit to lead you and speak through you.
It's also a good thing to make sure that your motives are pure not selfish.
If you have a godly friend that you know lives to please The Lord, ask them to help keep you accountable. And when they do, listen to them, don't get mad, defensive, or upset, rather thank them and pray about it.
Lets strengthen the Body of Christ not tear it down, or watch it fall apart because we were to afraid to say something.
S-Share with The Lord areas you would like to be held accountable and them allow Him and a godly friend to hold you accountable.
