Proverbs 8:33 English Standard Version (ESV) Hear instruction and be wise, and do not neglect it.

The Hebrew word here for neglect is pāraʿ which has a biblical outline of usage to lead or act as a leader. The second usage is to let go, let loose, ignore, let alone.

Yesterday we discussed the issues of having multiple accountability partners and the needs related to the condition of the heart. Trying to demonstrate the biblical encouragement in holding to that principle is not as easy as just saying “do it”. Needs are identified because we get involved.

Why this issue of neglect has been chosen to demonstrate the need for accountability is because of what neglect does to the condition of our hearts. It leads to dissatisfaction and eventually distancing ourselves from the very people that God has put in our lives to make this life in Christ richer.

Over the decades we might have noticed a certain amount of apathy among those who call themselves Christians. They might maintain the title for themselves by attending church only on sacred holidays. They neglect service because they were not served.

In the earliest days of the church there were clearly defined needs. We have records of sacrifice and service that are unparalleled today. Today church rolls may swell to the thousands but if we look closely we find only a small core of believers try desperately to serve the needs of the many.

If we do not get involved we will never know what is missing that we as individual member of the body of Christ might be capable of doing to serve one another.

This message will not reach those who attend church only twice a year. If they neglect to gather together there is no expectation that they will receive instruction from a stranger who is on a journey of discover himself.

We are not on this journey alone.