Wisdom Walks: Live Intentionally, Maximize Relationships & Pass the TorchExemplo

The Warrior

I once heard an athlete say, “We would have a great team except for all my teammates.” Yes, we talk team, but we value self. I think it is built in us. There is something in us that says we can stand alone; we don’t need others. From the youngest to the oldest, many of us have the mentality to do things by ourselves. We error on “I can do it” instead of “We can do it.”

Doesn’t loving God come down to just me? Yes and no. Yes, you do need to love God with all your heart and be a Walker. No, you can’t do it alone! And that’s why we all need a Warrior. Don’t fall into that trap of isolation. Don’t be stupid! Living the Christian life is a “we” thing not a “me” thing. There is a great African proverb that states, “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” 

Don’t get solitude and silence (two powerful spiritual disciplines) mixed up with isolation. Isolation is pulling away and saying, “I can live out my faith on my own, and I don’t need anyone to help me.” There is pride in isolation, and also fear. Some think we can live our faith through our own power while others are often afraid to let someone else see their “real me.” 

Eliminate isolation and invite a Warrior (a close friend) into your life. In the Warrior relationship, there is mutual mentoring and accountability. Attitudes and actions are confronted firmly and lovingly. This environment of trust and transparency allows real transformation to happen. Both are committed to helping the other be faithful, fulfilled, and fruitful. We are made to do what God has planned, live with passion, and bear much fruit. This is the abundant life. 

Also, a Warrior challenges and encourages. By challenging, sharpening takes place through asking the tough questions and making sure there is nothing below the waterline that will sink your life. Every area of life is open for discussion, because there is full access. Encouraging others to be authentic is rooted in a desire to see others succeed. Locking up with one or two warriors will radically alter your life. When there is H.O.T. communication (honest, open, and transparent), God’s work can be accomplished to shape us into the WisdomWalker He desires. 

The characteristics of the Warrior:

• Asks the tough questions
• Confronts attitudes and actions
• Lifts and builds up
• Prevents wandering and drifting

For 30 years, we have had people in our lives that we connect with on a weekly basis — someone who asks us tough questions. Accountability has allowed us to live for Christ with greater purity and passion.

Live the Christian life as it is intended to be lived: as a team sport. Warriors are go-to teammates on your Dream Team who love you and believe the best in you. When you have a Warrior, you become their Warrior as well. Do you have a Warrior or two?

Dig In:

1. How could a Warrior help you fulfill your purpose? How could this relationship help someone fulfill their purpose?
2. Who is currently in your life that could be a Warrior? Make a list of 3-5 people. Ask them to be a Warrior in your life. 

“Father, I know that need a Warrior or two. Please allow me to enter into an accountable relationship with a friend who I can do life with, shoulder-to-shoulder. I need someone who will love me enough to hold my feet to the fire! In Jesus’ name, amen."