The phrase “an ace up your sleeve” is an idiom that implies a secret advantage one holds, ready to be used at just the right time. As we become more familiar with the Bible, we learn to recognize the hidden “aces” that godly men and women relied upon—advantages that gave them strength in their service to the Lord. In this article, I will identify three characteristics that define an “ace,” and once understood, they can be invaluable to every Christian, especially those aspiring to lead.
At its core, our ace is having at least one other believer who stands with us and for us in our efforts to faithfully live for Christ. This person is our “ace.” While long-distance aces can certainly help, the best ones are local—those present in our daily orbit. An ace consistently shows up in our lives through accountability, companionship, and encouragement. They are true friends in every sense of the word.
Accountability is one of the least sought-after qualities in a friend, yet it is essential for building personal integrity and discipline. We all need someone who will consistently hold us accountable to our promises and commitments. While this task often falls to a spouse, a friend—being less emotionally vested—can sometimes speak more directly and frankly. Consider Paul confronting Peter over his behavior toward the Gentile believers in Galatia (Galatians 2:11–14). Paul was plainspoken, direct, and unwavering about the truth they had previously affirmed at the Jerusalem Council (Acts 15), where it was declared that God made no distinction between Jew and Gentile. Yet Peter, in that moment, withdrew from Gentile believers to favor Jewish customs. Paul acted as Peter’s ace when he lovingly but firmly corrected him.
The Bible is rich with examples of loving, necessary confrontation: Nathan with David, Samuel with Saul, Moses with the elders of Israel. Even Jesus, in Matthew 16, sharply rebuked Peter—calling him “Satan”—when Peter resisted the Lord’s mission to go to Jerusalem and suffer. Loving accountability is vital if we are serious about succeeding in the walk of righteousness.
The right kind of companionship is equally vital. Having someone we trust to stand alongside us strengthens our confidence and fuels our perseverance. Humans are naturally social; we are designed for connection. Close, personal relationships inspire, challenge, and sustain us. Scripture speaks clearly to this truth:
Ecclesiastes 4:9–10 “Two are better than one; because they have a good reward for their labour. For if they fall, the one will lift up his fellow: but woe to him that is alone when he falleth; for he hath not another to help him up.”
Proverbs 27:17 “Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend.”
John 15:12–14 “This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you. Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you.”
Jesus called his disciples “friends,” and in his culture, friendship implied deep affection, trust, and loyalty. It meant there were no secrets between them and no sacrifice too great—even unto death, as Jesus demonstrated. We need companions like that: aces who walk beside us, sharing both our victories and defeats.
Encouragement from strangers is nice, but nothing stirs the heart like encouragement from a close friend. Think about how Jesus encouraged Peter, even knowing Peter would soon deny him during the trial and crucifixion:
Luke 22:31–32 “Simon, Simon, Look! The Adversary demanded permission to have you all, so that he could sift you like wheat, but I have prayed for you, Simon, that your trust [faith] would not fail. And you, when once you have turned back in repentance, strengthen your brothers.”
Imagine Peter reflecting on those words during the dark days after Jesus’ resurrection and ascension. No doubt he drew strength from Jesus’ encouragement as he prepared for the “the promise of the Father” on the day of Pentecost. True encouragement from a friend can reignite our faith and renew our courage.
Today, I am blessed to have several aces in my life—men who hold me accountable, spend quality time with me, and encourage me to remain faithful to my calling in Christ. I genuinely believe every Christian needs the same. Yes, Jesus is our first and greatest ace. But he has called us to live in community, not in isolation. We are to seek out true friendship and encourage one another.
Proverbs 18:24 “A man that hath friends must shew himself friendly: and there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother.”
Every believer needs an ace—a true friend who walks with them in the love, truth, and power of Christ. To remain faithful in our walk with Christ, we cannot do it alone. Just as Jesus surrounded himself with disciples who stood by him and loved him, we too need these kinds of relationships. Who are the aces in your life—the ones who challenge, support, and remind you of your purpose in Christ? If you can’t name them, it’s time to find them. The best way to find an ace is to be one for someone else. Invest in another’s life. Invite them to your table, give them your full attention, and listen carefully for the Lord’s voice as he guides your words and actions. More importantly, be the ace someone else needs. Offer unwavering support and be present when they need you most. We are not meant to walk this journey of faith in isolation; we are called to strengthen and encourage one another, helping each other stay the course.
Your Friend,
