Mentoring And Making DisciplesSample

Mentoring For Strange Circumstances 

Angel Gabriel had a strange message for Mary. She would be the virgin who would bear the Messiah! As she stood shocked, the angel tells her other important news. Elisabeth, her relative who was considered barren would also have a child. God, the Master Planner, knew that Mary would need a person who could encourage her as she started out to do God’s calling.

Look at their story with me. Here are two women who will change the history of the world with the children they bear. One a virgin and the other a barren woman. Each child conceived only through the power of God. Two women in strange circumstances, but playing an important role in the story of God’s salvation. 

Luke, the historian who made a careful investigation of these things, records that after this Mary immediately went in a hurry to the hill country of Judea to Elisabeth’s house.

Mary knew that Elisabeth would have words of encouragement for her. They should have known each other pretty well before, but their lives had changed with the Angel’s message. When Mary greets Elisabeth at the door, the unborn John the Baptist leaps in his mother’s womb. And Mary sings! What a joyous meeting! They spent at least three months together. What conversations these women must have had! How they must have talked about the prophecies of the Old Testament and wondered about the things to come. How they must have strengthened each other!

We all have an important role in God’s kingdom. It may not seem extraordinary to us but there are unique challenges in the part that we must play. Our lives have seasons of joy but there will also be seasons of pain, doubt, and uncertainty. During these times a mentor can strengthen us with their counsel and share their experiences. They can marvel along with us at Gods work and encourage us with the truth of God’s word. 

In this digital age, we no longer have to travel to meet a friend. The crucial thing is to share our hearts, and keeping in constant touch by phone, or through emails can be a blessing.

What is the unique challenge that you are facing now? Are you walking on a difficult path? Seek out mature Christians who have walked a similar path or are navigating one now. The mutual sharing and encouragement will help you.

Are you starting a ministry that God has called you to do? Seek counsel from an older Christian who is serving God in a similar capacity. May your heart be encouraged to accomplish the purposes of God! May God provide you with people who will strengthen you for your long journey!