Hebrews 3:12-13 “Take care, brethren, that there not be in any one of you an evil, unbelieving heart that falls away from the living God. But encourage one another day after day, as long as it is still called “Today,” so that none of you will be hardened by the deceitfulness of sin.”

Every person needs someone to watch over him or her. No matter how old or strong or wise or grounded in the faith a person seems to be, there is always the risk of temptation’s gaining a foothold. This is why the writer to the Hebrews tells his readers to watch out for one other.

Recently I read the book Mrs. Kennedy and Me, by Clint Hill. Hill was one of the Secret Service agents assigned to Jacqueline Kennedy during her time in the White House as First Lady. I was amazed at the precautions taken to protect her and her children from those who might want to injure her and from the press who sought to invade her privacy.

Hill came to know and understand the First Lady’s temperament and desires. He spent hours upon hours in her presence, always keeping an eye open for any trouble that might be lurking around the corner.

Similarly it is important for us as God’s children to be watchful of one another. Accountability is of utmost importance when it comes to preserving our faith and integrity. We have an enemy who constantly seeks to destroy us through deceit and doubt. By isolating us from other believers, he has a better chance of success.

When we meet together on a regular basis and look out for one another we are able to intercept trouble before it has time to do damage. Through prayer, encouragement, and gentle words of affirmation or correction we strengthen and empower one another to remain firm in faith and to resist the wiles of the devil.

We walk with each other through adversity and provide a helping hand and strong shoulder to lean on when life gets hard.

Clint Hill remained with Mrs. Kennedy a year beyond her time as First Lady. His watchful eye and careful preparations protected and comforted her each day, most notably in Dallas when he jumped on the rear of the Presidential vehicle to help her when she faced the worst day of her life. How much more should we as fellow Christians keep a watchful eye on each other?

Our enemy is real and constantly seeks to kill and destroy our faith. Encourage one other and cheer one another on. We are in the Secret Service of the King of Kings – somebody’s life might just depend on us.

Sandra Sheridan is a Midwest wife and mother of five. She shares her messages to her children with Farm World. Visit her at www.VersesFromMama.com