Scripture:
“The purposes of a person’s heart are deep waters, but one who has insight draws them out.” Proverbs 20:5
Lesson:
Last week, we discussed why having a sponsor/accountability partners is important when you are on your recovery journey. This week, we are going to look at what qualities you should look for in a sponsor and what their roles are.
What are the Qualities of a Sponsor?
When you are selecting a possible sponsor, look for the following qualities:
- Does their walk match their talk?
- Do they have a growing relationship with Jesus Christ?
- Do they express a desire to help others?
- Do they show compassion, care, and hope, but not pity?
- Are they a good listener?
- Are they strong enough to confront your denial or procrastinations?
- Do they offer suggestions?
- Can they share their own current struggles with others?
What is the Role of a Sponsor?
Here is what the sponsor is responsible for:
- They continually point you to Jesus, but they do not work the steps for you!
- They can be there to discuss issues in detail that are too personal or would take too much time in a meeting.
- They are available in times of crisis or potential relapse.
- They serve as a sounding board by providing an objective point of view.
- They are there to encourage you to work the Celebrate Recovery Principles at your own speed.
- They attempt to model the lifestyle resulting from working the eight principles in Celebrate Recovery.
- A sponsor can resign or be fired.
Life Application:
The biggest part of having sponsor besides their character is that you are truthful and honest with them. They can only help you if you go to them and lay it all out for them. And then make sure to take what they say to heart. When we are in the middle of the fire or the fight, sometimes your sponsor’s words may be hard to receive. But rest assured, they are coming from a place of love and only want the best for you. Their perspective is coming from solid ground, where your perspective possibly is still in troubled waters. Trust the process, trust Christ, and not your own understanding.
*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!
