You Were Meant to Mentor

We are in the midst of a new sermon series at church called Growing Maturity.  Actually the theme of this whole year is centered around growing in maturity. Pastor Ben, our youth pastor, was preaching yesterday about Spiritual Maturity.  One of his points, and there were many good ones, was that someone who is mature desires not only personal growth, but multiplication.  We've talked about that concept at church for a long time now, but the thought really captured me this time.

God doesn't desire that we clone ourselves - duplicates whose function and performance are identical to ours.  He doesn't need hundreds of Liz's running around trying to coordinate and organize and facilitate.  At face value that may seem like a good thing, but trust me - it's NOT. What he wants us to do is to mentor others so that they have the skills to listen and to walk in the path that the Lord has ordained for them.  He wants us to multiply.  That reminds me of a poem . . .

You Were Meant to Mentor!

A choice is before you – but you can’t decide.

A godly adult can be your guide.

If you make a wrong move, some may criticize.

What you need instead is one who’ll advise.

As we grow, there are ways we need to adjust.

Try to find someone you know you can trust.

In our lives there are those who simply pretend,

But others will prove to be lifelong friends.

When you’re trying to learn to make Jesus your center,

It helps to find someone to be your mentor.

In the Bible you’ll find there are mentors galore.

In their lives we see truths that we shouldn’t ignore.

Jesus called His disciples to follow His lead.

And He sent them out with the skills to succeed.

When Saul met the Lord many doubted his word.

But Barnabas defended him to all who heard.

Paul gave to Timothy much that he’d need –

Instruction, encouragement, and a desire to lead.

Naomi advised her dear daughter Ruth;

Samuel tried to direct Saul to truth.

Elijah was tutor in the ways of the Lord

To Elisha, who followed with one accord.

Priscilla taught others how to preach

So they could extend the kingdom’s reach.

So how do you serve as a mentor to others?

You treat them as if you’re their sister or brother.

You give them respect and you help them to learn.

You point them toward things that will help them discern.

You listen and love and laugh at their jokes.

That’s one way to share their heavy yokes.

Have fun with each other, believe in them,

You’ll soon discover they’re truly a gem.

Study together, be sure to pray.

There really isn’t a better way.

As you point their heart toward their loving Lord

A great satisfaction will be your reward.

© Liz Kimmel