Thoughts from daily Bible reading for today – June 24, 2019
Now I commit you to God and to the word of his grace, which can build you up… remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’ ”… When Paul had finished speaking, he knelt down with all of them and prayed. They all wept as they embraced him and kissed him. Acts 20:32, 35-37
My friend Woody, along with many others, was mentored by Truett Cathy (Chick-fil-A Founder and CEO). Even as he approached his impending death, Truett reminded Woody what was most important in life, “Love your wife well and take care of your children”. With one foot in heaven and one foot on earth, Truett used his influence for the benefit of one man. A few days later at Truett’s funeral, Woody honored his mentor with these words, (reflecting on a time Truett and Woody delivered lemon pie to a widow):
Truett, you took to heart the scripture found in James 1:26 “Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this; to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.” Here you were showing Christ’s love to a widow while modeling a servant’s heart for this orphan. That’s why, decades later, I found myself – along with some little Faulk girls – delivering homemade Dwarf House pies and Chick-fil-A food to homes and the homeless on Christmas Eve. It wasn’t until I dropped a pie off at the home of a widower I cared about that it dawned on me – you had modeled behavior that I was now doing. You, Truett, taught me how to be generous. I had become . . . just like you.
In a similar way, as Paul approached the end of his life, he reminded the leaders of the church what was most important for them. He committed them to God, knowing the Lord was their ultimate leader. Paul’s influence marked their lives, but Christ was their master. Paul also committed them to God’s word of grace which would build them up in faith, love and generosity, reminding them of Jesus’ words of additional blessings that come to generous givers. Then in humility—all knelt in prayer, weeping and embracing, experiencing their last time together.
“To Titus, my true son in our common faith: Grace and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Savior” (Titus 1:4).
You may not feel like a mentor to mentors, but the Lord has grown your faith and influence to serve in this way. It’s not about you, but about those who are patiently, gently and prayerfully served by you. Pray about one person you can pour into with life lessons you have learned by walking with Christ over the years. Be real about your many mistakes, failures and struggles. Honesty and vulnerability connect hearts to each other and to Jesus. When you take the time to prayerfully mentor potential mentors you invite the Spirit’s power and praise in heaven.
Children in the faith who are nurtured in their love for Christ become God’s instrument of peace, love and hope for their generation. Do not despise whatever role you have in life: parent, retiree, community volunteer, teacher, administrator or service professional. Pray over your circle of influence to be used to grow others in God’s word and grace. The human heart and mind are hungry for love and truth. Dispense both with humility and compassion, and watch the Holy Spirit do a deep work in you and in those whom you love unconditionally. Mentor and be mentored, so the Kingdom of Light illuminates brighter than the Kingdom of Darkness. A mentor for Jesus is a mighty weapon in the hands of God. Bow in humble prayer—He will lift you up!
“When Jacob had finished giving instructions to his sons, he drew his feet up into the bed, breathed his last and was gathered to his people” (Genesis 49:33).
Prayer
Heavenly Father, give me courage to mentor others through you, in Jesus’ name, amen.
Application
Who can I serve and help grow in their love for Christ?
Related Reading
Proverbs 22:6, 27:17; Psalm 71:18; John 14:26; 2 Timothy 2:2; Titus 2:3-4
Post/Tweet today
Honesty and vulnerability connect hearts to each other and to Jesus. #mentor #wisdomhunters #Jesus
Worship Resource
4 minute music video- Jesus Culture:
Donate
If you are blessed by these daily devotionals please prayerfully consider a donation to support Wisdom Hunters Resources. We are trusting the Lord for His provision.
Download our app!
