Small GroupsThese groups are set up for life-on-life relationships, but they’re often also grouped by similarities. So, peers are grouped: 20-somethings with 20-somethings, 30-somethings with 30-somethings, and so on. While you might not find a mentor in your same small group, look for another small group of more seasoned believers. You might find your mentor there.Lay Ministers at ChurchDo you see someone serving consistently at church in the same ministry or a few ministries? Is there a Sunday school or youth minister you would love to emulate? After watching for a while, approach that person and ask them to become your mentor. Even if they don’t have the time to mentor you, they will probably know someone who does.Campus OrganizationsIn your school environment, you may find a mentor. If you’re a student, do you have a professor who reveals their faith in their lessons or when you meet them during office hours? If yes, then maybe you’ve found your next mentor.Look for the People God Has Purposefully Placed around YouBe a good listener when you join other organizations, and keep your eyes open for clues about the people around you. You may be involved in local organizations like The Boys & Girls Club, 4-H, or a local Little League. If, while performing regular duties in the civic organization, you see godly qualities in a person, consider asking other probing questions, like “Do you attend church regularly?” You could even ask to go to church with that person. If all the clues point to that person as a strong person of faith, invite them to mentor you. Outline how the mentoring relationship will be organized regarding time for that person. Ask him/her to suggest a book you can read together. Ask if they can devote an hour or more regularly to meet with you and check on your progress.Praying for a Mentor in FaithIf you’re a new believer, take my word for it. God loves to answer prayer. If all the tips above seem overwhelming, this one is the most important. Pray. God loves to answer the prayers of His children. Let Him know you need a mentor, and wait to hear how He answers you.Finally, remember mentors aren’t perfect. They are just willing to share their lives. We see strengths and weaknesses in Naomi, a mentor to Ruth (Ruth 1:13, 21), and Paul, a mentor to Timothy (Acts 8:1-3). With the right expectations, a mentorship can be a refreshing, deeply rewarding experience for both involved.References: Elmore, Tim. Mentoring: How to Invest Your Life in Others. Indianapolis: Kingdom Business Ministries (1995).Photo Credit: ©Pexels/Matheus Bertelli
Cantice Greene is a writer and college professor. She is committed to helping students and professors stay connected to Christ in college. She draws writing inspiration from life with her family, including four children and her husband, a licensed minister. Learn more at https://canticegreene.com and recommend her 7-day devotional “Giving God my Best in College” to a college student in your life. Social: https://www.linkedin.com/in/canticegenglishphd/
