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“Give instruction to a wise man, and he will be still wiser; teach a righteous man, and he will increase in learning.” Proverbs 9:9 (ESV)

Shortcuts – we all love them don’t we?  When I’m on a road trip if someone can tell me how to shave off heavy traffic and arrive at my destination sooner, I’m all in.  If I’m taking on a new task at work and my computer is driving me crazy, I can greatly benefit from someone showing me the way versus wasting time.  And when it comes to my morning routine, I’d love input on how to cut that time in half.

Yes, the pros of shortcuts are priceless.  We can get more done.  We can get somewhere faster.  We can reach the end result without frustration.  Shortcuts save time, make life doable and serve us well. It’s the ultimate win – win solution.

One of my fave shortcuts is testimony (our God story).  Yes, you heard me right – someone’s testimony often saves me from a myriad of mistakes and consequences.  Hearing their story, without the coverup, gives me a front row seat in how to do life or not do life.  By intentionally listening to how God has worked through their story teaches me volumes about life.  The good, bad and ugly align to showcase God’s redemptive power and invite me to seize those lessons for myself.

So you may be wondering how do I take advantage of these shortcuts or how can I share what God has done in my life?  Well, sweet friends, the answer is simple – mentoring.  Yes, you got it.  When we have a teachable spirit and invite others into our circle, we gain powerful insights.  Welcoming a mentor allows us to glean deep lessons and build solid relationships with those who are further along in their faith journey.  Choosing to be a mentor reminds us of God’s redemptive work in our story and allows us to guide someone else by sharing tips on navigating life. The sweetest blessing ever is watching someone growing deep in their faith.

Webster defines a mentor as a trusted counselor, guide, tutor, coach, wise and faithful teacher.  Quite the job description yet one divinely given by God (Titus 2:3-4).  Doing life solo never serves us well. We need community, and we flourish when we release the “I’ve got it all figured out” stance.

My life has been graced with several mentors who poured into my soul, teaching me how to parent as a single mom, encouraging me through tough talks and lots of prayer.  Their wisdom, friendship and godliness were priceless.  Can’t imagine doing life without them cheering me on and sharing their story with me.  So to one who has been given much – much is required right?  One of the reasons I’ve enjoyed mentoring others is remembering how God used other women to strengthen my walk in the Lord and kept my eyes focused on Him rather than them.

Can’t think of a better shortcut than to glean from godly mentors and then pay it forward by serving others in the same way.

“Father, we have been given the beautiful gift of community – an opportunity to do life together, learn from one another and grow in our faith.  Help us to embrace those You bring into our path and honor You by encouraging and inspiring others.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life

Interested in mentoring – check out TRBC Women’s Life Open Hearts Titus 2 Mentorship at trbc.org/women’s life