Scripture:
“As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” Proverbs 27:17
Lesson:
This week, we are going to focus on how to find a sponsor and/or an accountability partner.
How Do I Find a Sponsor and/or Accountability Partner?
- They must be the same gender as you.
- Listen to people who share their story/testimony. Do you relate to what is spoken?
- Get to know the person before you ask them to be your sponsor or accountability partner. Ask them to go out for coffee.
- If someone declines to be your sponsor or accountability partner, do not take it as a personal rejection.
- Ask God to lead you to the sponsor/accountability partner of His choosing. He already has someone in mind for you.
What is the difference between a sponsor and an accountability partner?
A sponsor is someone who has worked through the eight principles and 12 steps. The main goal is to choose someone to guide you through the program. The sponsor’s role is that of a “coach”.
An accountability partner is someone you ask to hold you accountable for certain areas of your recovery or issues, such as attending meetings, journaling, etc. The person can be at the same level of recovery as you are, behind you, or ahead of you. The main goal is to encourage each other. The accountability partner or group acts as the “team”.
Life Application:
Exodus 17:12-13 is an amazing example of how when we are weak we need our brothers to come alongside us to hold us up through the battle. This example can not be any more literal. It also shows us that God designed it to be this way. As men, we do not like to ask for help. But take heart, humbling ourselves to do so will produce an even stronger character, and God will use that far beyond what we would be able to do on our own.
*Celebrate Recovery meets Tuesday nights at the McVay Family Center in New Sharon. This is a safe place to find honesty, hope, and healing. The meal starts at 6 pm, and the lesson begins at 6:30 pm. Hope to see you there!
