Relational Living
And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near. - Hebrews 10:24-25
We all experience discouragement, weariness, and a lack of confidence at times. Especially when it comes to the call that God has put on our lives. When you hear the word "calling" do you think about something big like a new job or moving across the country? For some people that might be true however, God calls us all to many smaller things each and every day. He might be calling you to visit an elderly neighbor or call that friend that you are struggling to understand, or even to simply pay for the person's coffee in the drive thru line behind you. I find that many times I question the call because I lack the confidence in my skills. What about you?
You know what, God knew we would waver in our obedience at times so He had a plan for that: He created friends that we call mentors.
Timothy was an individual that struggled being obedient to God's calling on his life. Thankfully he had a mentor by the name of Paul. Paul knew Timothy had the gifts to lead the church in Ephesus but he also recognized Timothy's timid spirit and lack of confidence. So Paul wrote him two letters (1 Timothy and 2 Timothy) and through those letters, urged him to "fan into flame the gift of God" (2 Timothy 1:6).
Esther is another individual that had a mentor in her life; he uncle Mordecai. He knew that Esther was the one that could save the Jewish people and encouraged her to stand strong in truth (Esther 4:14).
Both Timothy and Esther answered God's calling after receiving encouragement and guidance from their mentors. They both were reminded of the power of the Holy Sprit in their lives. Who has spoken God’s truth over you, reminding you that God has given you gifts to share with the world?
Just like Paul and Mordecai, we too can be mentors for those around us. When we pour into the lives around us, we become a part of their spiritual heritage making a lasting impact on their lives. If you are a mother of a child then you have something to offer an expectant mother. If you have been married for two years, 5 years, ten years, or 50 years then you have something to offer another married couple. It does not mean that you did things perfectly however it does mean that you have experiences that will help to guide another; maybe to avoid a pitfall or maybe simply how to help a new mom develop a routine so she can take a shower! As mentors, we help others learn to lean into the power of the Holy Spirit. When we are obedient to the call, we find power to overcome our fears, show a love that longs to serve others, and develop self-control that helps us obey God in order to live obediently with Him.
Who has God placed in your life that you can encourage this week?
