Practical Ways to Mentor

Now that we’ve addressed the heart and our thought life, let’s look at a few practical suggestions for mentoring our own children and the younger woman mentioned in Titus 2. Notice that this is a call for all older women to teach generally and specifically. The curriculum is outlined in Titus 2. (more on that later) This is not a church program, or a class, but a day by day, side by side mentoring. Although a class might be helpful, a living example is what is desperately needed. It is the idea of “doing life” together, in order to train. Encouragement is best received when the spiritual mother walks along side of another in order to guide.

In order to have a relationship where you are intentionally trying to help a younger sister in Christ, you must be:
1. Willing to serve another- the word ministry comes from the same word which means ” to serve.” Be willing to serve them lunch, go out and grab a coffee, go to the park with their kids, or do a day trip so that you earn the right to be heard.

2. Willing to forgive- sometimes a younger believer is immature or inconsiderate. You were there once yourself, so be prepared to overlook faults when necessary.

3. Willing to confront- in love, of course. Wrong thinking about God, harsh statements about others, and a critical spirit are common with new/immature believers. Lovingly challenge their incorrect thinking, for their own good.

4. Willing to give time.- No matter how you slice it, you can’t affect someone for Christ without spending time with them. If you are going to the grocery store, ask a younger mom to come along. If you are going to visit someone in a nursing home, bring them along,too. Whatever you are doing, you can involve someone younger. This creates a sense of community among Christian women.

5. Willing to listen. An older woman who talks too much is self-absorbed and foolish according to Proverbs. A younger woman will ask your opinion when she wants it. They usually want to watch your lifestyle, and when they want to know something, they’ll ask.

6. Willing to use what you have.-Your possessions, your home, car, time, etc…are all given to you to be used for God’s kingdom. What do you have in front of you today that you could offer? A kiddy pool and a glass of lemonade? A teapot and some butter cookies? It doesn’t have to be much, but God can take your willingness and your meager possessions and multiply it greatly for His kingdom.

Let me also encourage you to start in your one home. If you have daughters, you are responsible to train them first!