Scripture:
For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many. Mark 10:45
Lesson:
The road to recovery is not meant to be traveled alone. We actually need three major relationships. First and most important is our relationship with Jesus Christ. In addition, everyone needs relationships with people in their support group. Last, everyone needs a relationship with a sponsor and/or accountability partner/team. Here are some qualities to look for in the people we need to support us and to provide for the people we will help.
S-Servant leader
Sponsors should not be dictators. They lead by living out the steps and principles.
P-Power comes from God, not from the sponsor
Sponsors need to make sure they are giving Godly advice.
O-Open to share their recovery journey
Sponsors need to be transparent. We are all works in progress!
N-Nonjudgmental
Sponsors should not judge those we sponsor, but guide them by encouraging and challenging them. Sponsors need to be role models.S-Still growing in their relationship with God Sponsors need to be active in their own recovery.
O-Objectivity
Getting too close to the individuals we sponsor can be counterproductive and develop into an unhealthy, codependent relationship.
R-Reachable
Sponsors need to be there when the individuals we are sponsoring are going through a crisis.
Application:
Being a sponsor is an important, meaningful next step once you have completed the steps and principles of recovery and are actively living a life that reflects those values. It provides a dedicated avenue to serve Jesus and actively contribute to the healing and growth of your recovery community. Beyond serving others, being a sponsor deepens your spiritual foundation, keeps you accountable, and reinforces the very principles that brought freedom to your life. By offering guidance, empathetic listening, and shared experience, you help create a safe space for others to navigate their own journey toward restoration.
Take a moment to reflect:
How can you prepare your heart and life to support someone else on their recovery journey, and which qualities of a sponsor do you most need God to grow in you?
