Accountability vs. Isolation

Proverbs 18:1 "He who separates himself seeks his own desire, he quarrels against all sound wisdom."

Many times Christians run away from accountability. A good friend of mine has said that it's like showing someone the light. When the light exposes a person, everything is seen. Most people don't want everything to be seen. We like to have the option of "privacy" in our faith. But for those of us who allow someone in our life to be the light that exposes, deeper and richer obedience and faith can be developed.

What is this verse in Proverbs actually telling us? If you separate yourself, it's easier to sin. No one knows about it. There is no light to expose it. Isolation and temptation often go hand in hand. How does a "roaring lion" (1 Peter 5:8) hunt and devour? You've seen it on Discovery channel. He waits till one antelope gets off by itself. And you know that sometimes you are not able to withstand temptation on your own (at least for now). That's why I think that it is critical to have the REAL brothers and sisters in your life that will speak God's truth to you and care enough about your relationship developing with Christ that they will speak His truth into your life, even if it hurts a little bit.

The bottom line...it pleases God. You are pursing holiness, righteousness, and other virtues and characteristics that will make you more available for God's use for Kingdom advancement.

Just remember...he who separates himself seeks his own desire. Don't separate yourself.