[You] know all about my teaching, my way of life, my purpose, faith, patience, love, endurance, persecutions, sufferings—what kinds of things happened to me. (2 Tim. 3:10–11)
The summer after high school was one of the most influential periods in my life. Yes, it happened to be the summer I started dating my husband. But it was also the summer I learned vulnerability and the power of community. For the first time, I had a mentor. An insightful and intentional woman—a little further along in life—who linked arms with me and became my sounding board through this transitional time.
I was Timothy, and she was Paul. She’d experienced life I had not yet faced. Instead of keeping that wisdom to herself or spending time only with her peers, she sought me out. How beautiful the mentor-mentee relationship can be—and how essential for growth as a believer.
I’m afraid we’re losing the art of discipleship. I know even now as a young mom of four boys—all under age ten—I often crave the companionship and insight of a godly woman who’s already been there. And I know there are younger women—teens, college ladies, young adults, freshly married, or new moms—who need someone like me to link arms with them.
God’s redemptive work in us isn’t meant for us alone—but for the good of his people. Therefore, like Paul, we must seek out discipleship (both giving and receiving), and be willing to live life in front of others, unprotected.
Consider whether you need a mentor, need to mentor, or both.
Sarah E. Westfall resides in Fort Wayne, Indiana, with her husband Ben and their four boys. Her elusive free time is spent reading, home remodeling, and writing.
© 2019 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission.
