Mentoring

And the special gift of ministry you received when I laid hands on you and prayed—keep that ablaze! God doesn’t want us to be shy with his gifts, but bold and loving and sensible. 2 Timothy 1:6-7 (The Message)

Paul wrote these words to Timothy from the darkness of a prison cell. What must Timothy have felt when he read them, knowing that his friend and mentor was yet again in chains and isolated? Was Timothy encouraged by Paul’s pep talk? Did he feel loved and important? Did he feel that he was a priority in Paul’s life? Or did Timothy feel a twinge of admonishment and insecurity because Paul had to remind him to get to work and “fan into flame the gift of God” (NIV8)?

Regardless of how Paul’s words were received by Timothy, Paul was indeed a mentor to him. Paul advised, guided, encouraged and was committed to sticking with Timothy to the end. Paul didn’t just focus on what good work Timothy had already accomplished, he pushed Timothy to persevere and improve. He urged him to use what God had given him, the spirit of power, love and self-discipline. Paul encouraged him to be bold and loving and sensible.

Who has God placed in your life to mentor? Can you follow the example that God, the Perfect Mentor, has laid out? He nudges us out into the world and out of our comfort zone. He sifts us with tough questions and difficult circumstances. At the same time, God is our greatest cheerleader, equipping us with everything we need to do His will while never leaving our side.

Gracious Father,
Help us remember that you desire us to be bold, loving and sensible with the gifts you have given us. Encourage us, love us and pour Your Spirit into us as we fan into flame the gifts we receive from you. Help us be a mentor to those you place in our lives. In the Mighty, Saving, name of Jesus. Amen.

Written by Julie Anderson