Gleaning Mentorship
My theology is centered around the notion of relationship. I see it in every aspect of humanity and creation. I believe that we are created chiefly for relationship with the creator – through which the other chief ends (glorifying Him, worshiping Him, enjoying Him) are achieved. We are built for it, we are meant for it, and we are incomplete without it.
This relational theology permeates my thinking on nearly everything. That’s one of the reasons that I wanted to be a part of this ministry to men that David Knapp envisions. I sincerely believe, due to our relational nature, that every man is called to mentor other men. Unfortunately men are not choosing to mentor.
I see men crying out for a mentor every day. OK, maybe “crying out” is too dramatic a phrase. They “mention” that they don’t yet have a mentor, and that they wish they did. Listen, if a man states, “I need a mentor,” no matter how casual and dignified the tone, in his heart he is crying out for a mentor. In full disclosure, I don’t really think I have someone in my life who qualifies strictly as a mentor.
There are several men in various spheres of my life who I respect. I like the way they are doing something. I like the way they look at things. I like their heart or spirit. It would be amazing if they would have the time and inclination to sit with me once a week, or even once a month. But, this is not always possible. But, yet I am still being mentored. How?
I choose men I respect and can learn from, and I glean from them. I purposefully pay closer attention to what they are doing and what they are saying. I read what they write. I look at my life in light of those things and look for ways I can improve and strengthen. In short, I am allowing myself to be taught even when the teacher is not aware he is a teacher.
Now here’s the catch. Someone might be choosing you as a mentor and you don’t even know it. How does that knowledge affect the way you proceed with your own life?
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My theology is centered around the notion of relationship.
Mine too! To me this is critical to my spiritual growth. I am currently trying to reconnect with my mentor. Due to some unforeseen circumstances we have not being able to connect the last 6 months.
I agree – relationship is a key understanding of God's "relationship" with mankind.
I'm totally with you, Herb. And I think even when we aren't saying it with words, many guys are 'crying out' for a mentor in other ways. I liked how you turned it around at the end too. We have to keep how we conduct our lives in the forefront because someone is ALWAYS watching. Thank you–great post.
I really think that we always need to consider our contribution to others' growth as we look to our own growth.
The fact that I am an unintentional mentor hit me right between the eyes when I became a parent and noticed my characteristics appearing in my own children. And the same applies to all we interact with. Like it or not, we influence those around us and have a responsibility to be lead by good example.
I heard a speaker once say, "The lights are always on, and the camera is always rolling." A sobering thought, for sure. Great post, Herb!
Yeah, that got me too. Just goes to show that we should be on guard at all times.
Thanks, guys – I think our children is a real quick way we see this work – I also notice it in the teens at church pretty strongly, but more in terms of how they affect one another.
Wow, that last question makes me cautious of my thoughts and actions.
I think it is really difficult to find a mentor because a lot of men feel inadequate.
I find mentors through authors. One of my favorites is Eugene Peterson.
I have also asked an older missionary to mentor me.
I have been mentored in the past but it wasn't really good timing for him. I am being cautious with the current one and making sure he really wants to do this (which I believe he does).
Thanks for this great post Herb!
This is a practice comment.
You present the real-world situation most of us find ourselves in… we just have to do the best we can to get the growth mentoring that we need. Iron sharpens iron, though, so we all need to be sharp for one another.
I began thinking about this when I started watching how other men did things – in life, in what they write, ect. I have been challenged greatly by the thought that others might be watching me. I think at times it helps keep me on track.
Good post Herb.
yup, iron sharpens iron, my friend… Roll Tide.
What an important reminder to all of us who are sporting Christian tees and tattoos.
(oh, that would be me)
Seriously…..you are spot on with being mentors without even realizing it. This is so critical for all of us who are supposed to be representing Christ in our daily Walk….
great post!
thanks, Michelle – I think mentoring is absolutely critical for women too – often overlooked though…
I see guys that need mentors but don’t even know it. sometimes it’s hard to bring that subject up, like, “You need a mentor!”
haha…we need to be more open about that though. I started mentoring someone last year, and it’s been awesome seeing both him and myself grow.
Mo, not sure when you posted, sorry I missed it… I love that you started to be a mentor… It’s something I’ve committed to as well.